The big thing that everyone wants to know when planning an international trip is what to pack. While everyone’s needs are different, after a lot of trial and error and many trips, I’ve figured out what is best when it comes to traveling internationally. I’ve spoken about this a couple times on the blog and I feel it’s just one of those topics that really never gets old. You can check out my international travel tips post here and read my easy packing tips here. For specific packing lists by location, head to the sidebar and search “pack.”

There’s a first time for everything, and traveling internationally shouldn’t be scary if you’ve never done it before. Making sure to pack properly will not only give you peace of mind but make it easier to navigate your surroundings.

To help, I’ve broken the list down into categories and key items.

Toiletries – If you’re staying in a hotel where some toiletries are provided, just bring your basics or must haves. If you have special skincare and haircare needs, obviously bring those items in small TSA approved or travel sizes. But a nice hotel will have decent shampoos and soaps. So don’t waste valuable bag space on those items.

Laundry detergent – I usually pack enough clothing that I don’t need to wash much, but there have been times when I’ve needed to wash a light t-shirt or some undergarments. Laundry soap can be purchased in very small single-use packets. I have used these sink packets with great success. Or, check with your Airbnb to see if soap and laundry facilities are provided. Hotels have laundry services you can take advantage of as well.

Valuables – Definitely leave these at home. It’s a good idea not to be too flashy with expensive jewelry or watches. Depending on where we are going, I will only wear a simple wedding band. Hotels often have secure safes in your room, but just consider if you really need to bring all of your technology and accessories.

Camera – These days, an iPhone camera is a great workhorse when shooting travel photos. If you’re not into professional photography, then leave any other camera at home. As a blogger, I like to shoot a lot of my content with my Nikon DSLR, but you can almost always get by with your phone alone.

Technology – Make sure you don’t bring the wrong adapter plug for all your technology. I would also recommend making sure you have enough adaptors for all your devices, especially if you’re traveling with a spouse or another person. An international travel adapter like this one is great because it has multiple USB ports.

Cash – There’s no reason to risk cash getting lost or stolen. ATMs are prevalent in Europe and your hotel or B&B host can usually recommend a safe ATM in your area. Just make sure you’ve contacted your bank and credit card company about any foreign transaction fees you may incur.

Luggage – Leave your massage luggage at home and opt for a smaller yet well-designed, safe, and durable luggage set. When traveling internationally, be prepared for limited overhead bin space on trains as well as public transport that is accessed primarily via staircase. A heavy and bulky bag helps to identify you as an American traveler and will just add to your stress level. We have traveled with Pacsafe bags for years and they continue to be large enough for a two week trip and small enough to easily move around with. The wheels are also sturdy enough to handle cobblestone streets. Plus the added security of Pacsafe gives us incredible peace of mind. These crossbody bags are a must!

Hairdryer – Most places we’ve stayed in have a hairdryer available that is built to handle European voltage, which is higher than in the U.S. and can burn out your styling tool if you’re not using the proper converter. Plus, a hairdryer takes up a ton of room, even if it’s a travel model. I only bring my slim hair straightener which has “dual voltage.” Rick Steve’s does a great job explaining this here. Check your current hair styling tool for a range of voltages such as “110–220” and if it doesn’t have it, consider purchasing a dual voltage styler like this one.

Clothing – Leave anything with sports teams, large logos, or loud prints at home (Hawaiian shirts, Dallas Cowboys gear, etc.). You’ll stand out as an easy target among pickpockets. Muted colors and neutrals are always best. You’ll also stand out in your favorite baseball cap so leave that at home as well. Unless you’re on a safari, a hike, a boat, or some other outdoor excursion, athleisure and ball caps are really just an American thing.

Books – Don’t bring a bunch of books that’ll just take up space. I prefer reading a hardcover novel, but I always switch to a slim eReader when traveling.

Traveling internationally should be a fun and fulfilling experience. You can avoid a lot of headaches and stress if you’re prepared. Knowing what not to pack is something I wish I had known many years ago. As they say, the more you know! Thanks for reading! Let me know in the comments if you have a handy travel tip you’d like to share.

Don’t forget to Pin!

xo – Erin

What NOT to Pack: Everything to Leave at Home When Traveling Internationally appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com. Thank you for reading!

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