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International travel can be a transformative and enriching experience. Stepping beyond familiar borders opens doors to new perspectives, cultures, and self-discovery. Amid life's responsibilities and routines, travel offers a unique opportunity to break free from the ordinary, fostering personal growth and resilience. Exploring diverse landscapes and interacting with people from different backgrounds broadens one's worldview and enhances empathy and understanding. 

Whether savoring local cuisines, navigating unfamiliar streets, or immersing yourself in the beauty of historical sites, international travel ignites a sense of adventure and rejuvenation. It becomes a powerful catalyst for redefining priorities, reigniting passions, and embracing the beauty of the midlife journey. Beyond the tangible experiences, the memories forged during these travels become a tapestry of resilience and empowerment, contributing to a sense of fulfillment that transcends the boundaries of age.

We believe this, and we’ve been transformed through many international adventures, like our recent Rumblings trip to Vietnam. As we plan for our 2024 trip to South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe and our 2025 trip returning to Vietnam, we’ve been asked by many women for our packing recommendations to ensure successful international travel. 

Here, we outline how we think about packing and our recommendations for what products to bring. 

Luggage 

Packing light for an international trip is a game-changer. First, it promotes convenience and mobility, allowing you to navigate airports, public transportation, and accommodations easily. We’re true believers in only packing what you can carry onboard. Therefore, it’s essential to consider where you are going, how often you’ll be moving from destination to destination, and what transportation you’ll be using. 

We prefer our roll-aboard luggage when we travel to cities, use public transportation, and move frequently. This suitcase has traveled to Italy, France, Australia, Vietnam, Canada, Hawaii, and Mexico without incident. It’s soft-sided, which offers more flexibility for packing and squeezing into overhead airplane bins, and is durable and affordable. We recommend roll-aboard luggage with 360-degree degree wheels. Also, if you are flying within and between countries internationally, check their carry-on size requirements. The bin space is often much smaller, so a smaller suitcase will be required if you don’t want to check your bag. 

If your trip entails traveling to more rural areas and van travel, we usually bring a backpacker or hiking backpack for convenience. Backpacks can be easier to carry up and down stairs, over rough terrain, and toss into trunks and trailers. Sizes of backpacks are stated in liters, so confirm the overhead bin restrictions on the airplane(s) you are traveling on. For most airlines, 50L or less is recommended. Comfort is key, so try your choice before your trip to ensure a good fit. Here are some of our personal favorites: Peak Design Travel Line, Osprey Renn 50 L, Gregory Mountain Products Women's Maven 55, and Gregory Mountain Products Women's Deva 60

Embracing a minimalist approach to packing encourages thoughtful choices, forcing you to prioritize essentials and detach from unnecessary belongings, fostering a sense of simplicity and liberation throughout the adventure. We’ve found packing cubes are a perfect way to help you stay organized and maximize the amount you bring. Many travelers love compression cubes, and others prefer standard packing cubes.

We also suggest a luggage lock for extra security with any luggage you choose.  

Day Bags

When selecting a day bag for international travel, several key factors should be considered to ensure functionality and convenience. First and foremost, the bag should strike a balance between size and capacity—large enough to carry essentials like a water bottle, phone, snacks, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket, yet compact and lightweight for easy portability. Opting for a bag with multiple compartments or pockets helps with organization, ensuring that essential items like passports, travel documents, and electronics are readily accessible. 

Durability is paramount, as the day bag will likely endure various environments and conditions. Look for materials that are both sturdy and water-resistant to protect your belongings. Comfort features such as padded straps and a breathable back panel can significantly enhance overall comfort, especially during extended periods of wear. 

Additionally, a bag with security features like lockable zippers or RFID-blocking pockets can provide extra peace of mind in crowded or unfamiliar settings. Ultimately, choose the type of bag you prefer (backpack, belt bag, or sling bag), and it will become an indispensable companion, seamlessly integrating into the rhythm of international exploration.

Wallet

A dedicated travel wallet or passport wallet is an indispensable companion for any globetrotter, offering a practical and organized solution to the myriad documents essential for a seamless journey. This not only keeps your passport easily accessible but also provides designated slots for boarding passes, credit cards, currency, and other travel essentials. RFID-blocking technology adds an extra layer of security, safeguarding your personal information from potential electronic theft. 

A well-organized travel wallet streamlines the airport experience and offers peace of mind throughout the trip, ensuring that crucial documents are always at your fingertips. Invest in this small but mighty travel companion to embark on your adventures with confidence and efficiency.

Weather Considerations

Packing lightly for varying weather conditions demands a strategic and versatile approach to ensure you are well-prepared for any climate surprises during your travels. Begin by selecting a core wardrobe of neutral, mix-and-match pieces that can be layered to accommodate temperature fluctuations. Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics (like Smartwool) that are breathable, packable, and easy to clean in the sink. Consider pieces like a baselayer long sleeve, simple tank, or odor-wicking tank. And don’t forget your feet. Consider socks like these light cushion low ankle, no show, or everyday crew.

A key element is the inclusion of convertible or multipurpose clothing items, such as a jacket that can transform into a vest or pants that can be converted into shorts. 

Check the local weather forecast before departure to fine-tune your packing list. Pack a small umbrella or a disposable rain poncho (handy in Vietnam) to ensure you’re prepared. 

The goal is to balance versatility and practicality, ensuring you have the essentials for warmth and protection without succumbing to overpacking.

Quick Dry Towel and Wash Cloth

Bringing Turkish or quick-dry towels on an international trip is invaluable as it offers a compact and efficient solution for unexpected situations. Another popular option is disposable towettes.

Toiletries

Toiletries can be a real challenge when packing lightly. The good news is that there are some very efficient options for consolidating your daily routine into just the amounts you need for your trip. Put the exact amount of all your creams and lotions you’ll need for your trip into containers like these. Some women like to streamline their routine when traveling and only take what will fit into one clear cosmetic bag to make security a breeze. 

Electronics

Careful consideration of your electronics is essential for a seamless and stress-free experience. First and foremost, verify the compatibility of your devices with the destination's power outlets and voltage, and invest in a universal adapter if needed. 

Backup chargers and power banks can be lifesavers, especially in areas with sporadic access to electricity. Ensure your devices are set to airplane mode during flights to conserve battery life and avoid unnecessary roaming charges. Safeguard your data by enabling security features such as passcodes and biometric authentication. Additionally, research the availability of Wi-Fi and cellular networks at your destination to plan for connectivity options. Finally, list essential electronics, prioritizing versatile devices that serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of gadgets you need. This thoughtful approach to managing electronics ensures that your devices enhance rather than hinder your international travel experience.

Bid farewell to overpacking woes and embrace a streamlined packing approach that maximizes efficiency. Whether a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time explorer, our guide is your passport to hassle- and stress-free international adventures. Dive into the world of smart packing and elevate your travel game with confidence and ease.

Join us and other adventure-seeking women on an upcoming trip.