The Long Haul Packing List

The Carry On List

Passport / Travel Insurance Documents (if not on phone) / ESTA/VISA (if needed) / Debit/Credit Card / Phone / Phone Charger / Laptop (charged) / Laptop Charger / Camera / Memory Card / Camera Charger / Socks / Hat / Tablets (for headaches/sleeping/etc)/ Glasses / Diary / Book (or magazine) / Headphones / In terms of liquids: A small can of dry shampoo (if you can find one under 100ml) / Deodorant / Cleansing Wipes / 8 Hour Cream/Lip Balm / Eye Cream / Hydrating Mask (sheet optional) / Hand Sanitiser / Rescue Remedy / Potentially a change of clothes (if you have a long connection/flight) / Small Hair Brush / Eye Mask / Neck Pillow / Chunky Scarf or jumper (in case it’s chilly)

This is definitely a list for the ones that like to overcompensate, but sometimes if you’re flying across the world and across different time zones, it’s nice to make sure you have everything with you that’ll keep you comfortable. When our flights to New Zealand were confirmed I instantly went into panic mode about how I’d spent the 24 hours, how I’d sleep when I needed to and stay awake when I was meant to be avoiding jet lag. Obviously, as soon as I sat down and started browsing the film selection none of this mattered, but I did realise I utilised nearly everything I’d packed which can only be a good thing. My carry on is the ‘bigger carry on’ from AWAY– which I pretty much couldn’t love more. It has a removable portable charger, is such a great size (even for smaller airlines) and has travelled with me from everywhere from Scotland to Auckland. In terms of books too, if you’ve got a flight where one leg would suggest you stay awake for as long as possible- I can absolutely recommend a thriller or who-dunnit (I loved The Couple Next Door, which had me awake for a solid 5 hours on the way home from Canada). I also love a good pair of bed socks for the flight and an emergency hat (or beret if you’re me) for when you inevitably land with greasy hair at the other side- a hat is a true miracle worker!

The Checked In

Pyjamas / Underwear / Return Travel Outfit / Outfits (Day and Night if needed) / Hairspray / Skincare / Make Up / Make Up Brushes / Straighteners (or curlers, dependant) / Contact Lenses (if needed) / A Small Bag/Backpack/Tote (for day and evenings out, totes are handy for dirty washing too) / Shoes (trainers, flats and an insurance pair of heels) / Adapters / Toothbrush / Toothpaste / Hairbands / Swimwear / Sunglasses / Pads & Tampons (if needed) / Thermals, Hat & Gloves (location dependant) / Sun protection

Again, this is a pretty accurate version of what I normally write out before jetting off for a trip four days or longer. Obviously it’s totally location dependant (although arguably thermals and sun protection can overlap) and can be adjusted to the amount of time you’re away for. I like to think I’m a pretty low maintenance traveller, but I’d love to know if there’s anything you make sure to always pack- and if you have any tips too (apart from ALWAYS ROLL YOUR CLOTHES)!

Also, let me know if you’d like this in PDF too- sometimes printing these things makes packing all the more satisfying too!

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