Pack Like a Pro: What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind) for Every Type of Trip

Whether you’re off for a cheeky weekend escape or a month-long trek through the mountains, packing smart can make or break your trip. Pack too much and you’ll be lugging unnecessary weight. Pack too little and you’ll be hunting for toothpaste in a foreign language. The trick? Pack with purpose—based on the type of adventure you’re taking.

Here’s how to nail your packing list for every kind of trip—and what you can definitely leave behind.

1. The Weekend City Break

What to pack:

• One or two versatile outfits you can dress up or down

• Comfortable walking shoes

• A crossbody bag or backpack

• Portable phone charger

• Travel-sized toiletries

  
  

Leave behind:

• More than one pair of jeans

• Hairdryers (most hotels have them)

• Heavy books (download an eBook instead)

  
  

Pro tip: Roll your clothes to save space, and aim for neutral colours so everything matches.

2. The Beach Holiday

What to pack:

• Swimmers (bring two so one can dry)

• Light layers and breathable fabrics

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Hat and sunnies

• Waterproof phone case

  
  

Leave behind:

• High heels (you won’t wear them)

• Full makeup kit (hello, beach glow!)

• Fancy clothes (unless you’ve got a resort dinner booked)

  
  

Pro tip: Toss in a lightweight sarong—it doubles as a towel, scarf, or impromptu picnic rug.

3. The Hiking or Adventure Trip

What to pack:

• Layered clothing for all conditions

• Quality hiking boots (already broken in!)

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

• Compact first aid kit

• High-energy snacks

  
  

Leave behind:

• Jeans (they get heavy and cold)

• Cotton socks (hello, blisters)

• Fancy outfits (not the vibe)

  
  

Pro tip: Think lightweight and quick-dry everything. Your back (and knees) will thank you.

4. The Luxury Escape

What to pack:

• Resort wear and smart casual outfits

• Wrinkle-resistant pieces

• Slip-on shoes or sandals for day, dressier options for night

• Noise-cancelling headphones

• Travel steamer (for those linen outfits)

  
  

Leave behind:

• Towels (the plush hotel ones are better)

• Shampoo and conditioner (unless you’re picky)

• Multiple handbags (one goes with everything, trust us)

  
  

Pro tip: Coordinate outfits around a couple of accessories to save suitcase space.

5. The Remote Work Trip

What to pack:

• Lightweight laptop and charger

• Portable monitor or tablet

• Universal power adapter

• Noise-cancelling headphones

• Strong coffee or your favourite tea bags

  
  

Leave behind:

• Clunky tech you won’t realistically use

• Too many work outfits (Zoom doesn’t care about your pants)

• Paper notebooks (go digital!)

  
  

Pro tip: Pack a power board or multi-port charger—cafés and airports are notorious for limited outlets.

And Don’t Forget…

No matter where you’re heading, there’s one item that should always make the list: travel insurance. Lost luggage, last-minute cancellations, sudden illness—these can ruin a trip if you’re not prepared. A good travel policy takes up zero space in your bag but can save you thousands (and a whole lot of stress).

Happy packing, happy travels—and may your suitcase always come in underweight.