On Route Scout

What to pack 🎒

A first international trip means packing for the unknown. Start with the universal basics below, then add whichever climate/culture sections match your destination — check each city's Quick facts for its specific weather and dress norms.

Universal basics — every trip

  • Passport (check it's valid 6+ months past your return date — many countries require this)
  • Printed + digital copies of passport photo page, visa/entry approval, and hotel confirmations
  • Phone charger + a universal plug adapter for your destination
  • A physical credit/debit card backup (different bank than your main card, stored separately)
  • A small first-aid kit: any prescription meds (in original packaging), pain reliever, motion sickness tablets, bandages
  • A copy of your travel insurance policy number and 24/7 emergency contact number
  • Reusable water bottle (many airports now have free refill stations post-security)
  • A lightweight day bag for daily excursions, separate from your main luggage
Carry-on vs. checked: see the list below — some things should never go in checked luggage.

Keep in your carry-on, never checked luggage

  • Passport, visa documents, ID
  • All medication (checked bags do get lost)
  • A change of clothes (in case checked luggage is delayed)
  • Chargers and any small electronics
  • Enough cash for your first day (small bills in local currency if you can get them beforehand)

Hot & humid climates (Southeast Asia, tropical destinations)

  • Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry clothing (linen or technical fabrics over cotton, which stays damp)
  • A light rain jacket or packable poncho if visiting during a wet season
  • Strong sunscreen (SPF 50+) and after-sun/aloe — often pricier or lower-SPF locally
  • A hat or cap and sunglasses
  • Sandals or breathable walking shoes; blisters are miserable in humidity
  • A small portable fan or cooling towel for extreme heat
  • Insect repellent, especially for rural or evening outdoor plans

Cold or winter climates

  • Layerable clothing — thermal base layer, mid warmth layer, wind/waterproof outer shell
  • Insulated, waterproof boots with good tread for ice or snow
  • Gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf or neck gaiter
  • Lip balm and a richer moisturizer — cold, dry air is harsh on skin
  • Hand and foot warmers for full-day outdoor plans

Temple, mosque & other modest-dress destinations

  • A lightweight scarf or sarong — doubles as a head covering or shoulder cover on the spot
  • At least one outfit covering shoulders and knees, even in hot climates (many sites enforce this strictly)
  • Slip-on shoes — you'll be removing them often at temples, mosques, and some homes
  • Note: some sites provide loaner sarongs/robes at the entrance, but availability varies — better to have your own