25+ Useful Things to Pack for a Trip for First-Time Travellers in 2024

What to pack for travel? This is #number 1 that pops into your mind before embarking on any journey. Say goodbye to stress and confusion with our ultimate travel packing list! 

Whether you're gearing up for a short getaway or a long adventure, we have compiled the best things to pack for a trip to make sure you get all of them.   

From clever folding techniques to narrowing down the basic travel essentials, we'll show you how to maximise space and minimise hassle. 

Upgrade your vacation experience with an informational blog post from UPAR Hotels, offering you the ultimate travel checklist to simplify your trip planning!

Let's get started!

Suggested Read: Planning a budget-friendly trip? Dive into our blog to explore the 14 best tips designed for both solo and family travellers. Read now!

25+ Things to Pack for a Trip for First-Time Travellers 

1. Essential Documents

Documents are some of the essential things to pack while travelling, regardless of your destination. 

Local Trips 

Here are some basic things to pack for a trip within your locality:

• Identity cards (PAN card, Aadhar card, driving license, etc.).
• Tickets and confirmation receipts (including train or bus tickets, as well as hotel booking confirmations).
• Health insurance documents 
• An identity card related to your occupation or university.

International Travel 

Don't forget your passport! It's crucial for travel. Even within Bangkok, having it handy is wise. Check its validity early; some places require 6 months left. Rushing for a new one is stressful. Keep it safe, and always double-check before leaving!

2. Don't Forget Your Adapter Plugs

Before jetting off, ensure you pack adapter plugs to avoid pricey last-minute purchases. Grab a two-pack of adapters from any of your favourite online shopping portals for just ₹400 (approx.). 

With these handy plugs as one of the most important things to carry while travelling, you can charge all your devices seamlessly, from laptops to hairdryers. 

Don't let a lack of adapters disrupt your digital nomad escapades!

3. Don't Skip Your Underwear

Ensure to pack sufficient underwear for your journey, as they're one of the necessary things for trip. Laundry facilities can come to your rescue if you run short. 

Pro Tip: Extra pants are handy in humid or rainy destinations. Keep clean and dirty separate with a designated bag for laundry.

4. Sock Choices 

Avoid the discomfort of stinky feet by packing wisely. Bring along sufficient pairs of socks to maintain freshness throughout your travels. 

Opt for thicker, longer socks in colder climates and lightweight ankle socks for urban exploration in sneakers.

5. Bring Along a Portable Phone Charger

There's nothing worse than that sinking feeling when your phone's battery drains while you're on the move. 

Make sure to pack a portable phone charger so you can give your device a boost wherever you're going. 

Whether you are exploring a bustling city like Chennai or hiking up a mountain, a portable phone charger is one of the essential travel items you can't ignore.

6. Smart Packing for Any Adventure 

Pack wisely with a mix of light and warm layers for varying temperatures. Consider planned activities: hiking, snorkelling, skiing, city sightseeing, or partying. 

Streamline packing by prioritising travel necessities. Verify you’ve got access to laundry facilities for extended trips. 

Customise attire for destination climates and activities, prioritising comfort and adaptability.

7. Reusable Water Bottles 

Stay refreshed on your journeys by packing a reusable water bottle. 

Conveniently stored in most travel backpacks' designated compartments, these useful travel accessories are readily accessible during your travel adventures. 

Opting for reusable options not only reduces environmental impact but also cuts down on expenses by eliminating the need for constant replacements.

8. Hair Care Products

Ensure your hair stays healthy while on the go by packing essential hair products. 

Opt for essential travel items such as a hairbrush, dry shampoo, or hair gel to conserve space in your toiletry kit. 

This leaves room for must-haves like toothpaste and deodorant. 

If you have extra space, consider bringing straighteners for added styling options, but only if they're essential to your routine.

9. Seize Moments with Your Camera

Capturing every moment with your camera is crucial during travel and makes it a trip to remember, allowing you to revisit experiences long after they've passed. 

Photos carry emotions and allow you to share your adventures with your friends, fostering lasting connections to the places you've explored.

10. Document Your Adventures with Travel Journals

Having a travel journal is a fantastic way to preserve the memories made during your journeys. 

Particularly on longer trips, it's easy to lose track of your experiences and the people you've met. 

Not only does a journal serve as one of the necessary things to pack for a trip, but it can also function as a route planner or local phonebook.

11. Roll-On Deodorant: A Must-Have

Consider packing a roll-on deodorant for your travels; its smaller size and ease of use make it one of your most convenient things to carry while travelling.

In addition, it's a safer option for those with asthma who may be sharing your space. 

Remember, spray deodorants are restricted in plane hand luggage, making roll-ons the practical travel solution.

12. Shrink Your Shampoo and Conditioner Bottles

Tired of lugging around bulky shampoo and conditioner bottles? 

Opt for smaller refillable bottles to save space in your backpack. 

Find these convenient containers at your local pharmacy or supermarket. 

For a sustainable twist, consider switching to shampoo or conditioner bars. 

These eco-friendly travel essentials are 100% plastic-free, generate zero waste, and last a long time, making them a win-win for your hair and the planet.

13. Compact Packing Tip for Body Wash 

To optimise luggage space, prioritise compact options for your body wash, such as travel-sized containers or reusable bottles, which are inevitable additions to your travel packing list. 

Alternatively, embrace sustainability by switching to a bar of soap packaged in a tin, aiming to minimise plastic waste throughout your journey.

14. Microfiber Towels for Convenient Packing 

Upgrade your travel gear with microfiber towels—one of the best bag packing ideas that offers you the convenience of being thin and easy to pack. 

Skip the hassle of hotel towel fees by bringing your own for a more budget-friendly trip.

15. Nourishing Your Skin on the Go 

Shield your skin from the harsh elements of travel by making your moisturizer a daily staple. 

As your skin adjusts to different climates, give it the care it deserves to stay hydrated and healthy by remembering these essential things to pack for a trip.

16. First Aid Kit 

For any backpacker venturing into his or her vacation, a travel medicine kit list is unavoidable. 

Make sure of your safety with this travel essential, which is available at reliable sellers both online and offline. 

Be prepared for any mishap during your explorations by carrying a first-aid kit in your backpack. 

Stay safe and enjoy your adventures with peace of mind.

Essential Travel Medical Kit

• Bandage 
• Pills for motion sickness 
• Thermometer 
• Antibacterial ointment 
• Allergy medications 

17. Remember Your Toothbrush?

Don't overlook your trusty toothbrush while packing for a trip. 

To save space, go for a regular toothbrush over an electric one, which can be bulky. 

For eco-conscious travellers, consider investing in bamboo toothbrushes to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability.

19. Stay Clean on the Go with Hand Sanitisers

Public toilets can be hit or miss in terms of cleanliness. 

To steer clear of any unwanted germs during your travels, always have a bottle of hand sanitiser on your travel checklist. 

It's a simple yet effective way to protect you from potential illnesses while on the road.

20. Travel Pillows: Your Companion for Comfy Trips 

Packing a travel pillow is a must-have addition to your travel essentials list, especially for your adventures on trains, cars, or planes. 

It elevates your comfort level significantly, making long journeys more enjoyable. 

Explore versions with hoods to stay comfortable and fashion-forward on the move.

21. Eye Mask for Quality Sleep 

If you're the type who wakes up at the slightest disturbance, don't forget to pack an eye mask. 

It's a great travel essential for those long bus or train journeys, providing a shield from unwanted light for a peaceful nap.

22. Nail Clippers and Beard Trimmers 

Add a beard trimmer and its charger to your travel packing list for a smoother grooming routine on the go. 

Don't forget to include your nail clippers for comprehensive grooming needs. 

Investing in a reusable shaver is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly, cutting down significantly on plastic waste.

23. Earplugs: Essential Sleep Aids 

Earplugs are essential for sound sleep in unfamiliar environments. 

They block out noise from bustling streets and snoring roommates, ensuring restful nights crucial for enjoying the day's adventures. 

Compact and inexpensive, they fit easily into your travel essentials list, offering a simple solution for quality rest on the go.

24. Power Glasses and Contact Lenses 

For travellers relying on corrective eyewear, ensuring you have glasses or contact lenses is paramount. 

Clear vision enhances your travel experiences. So don't forget to include your preferred eyewear on your travel packing list.

Consider carrying a spare pair to avoid any inconvenience during your journey.

25. Backup Phone for Emergencies 

Prior to embarking on a lengthy trip, invest in an affordable phone if you're uneasy about bringing your usual device. 

Obtain an eSIM or SIM card suitable for international (or local) travel. 

Verify that the SIM provides 4G/5G access to facilitate navigation, hotel bookings, and access to travel guides.

26. Sunglasses for Any Season 

No matter the time of year, sunglasses are one of the non-negotiable things to pack for a trip. 

Ensure your eyes stay protected from the sun's rays by packing a durable pair. 

Go for quality lenses for routine usage, and don't forget to pack a secondary pair for rougher beach and water activities.

27. Illuminate Your Path with a Torch

Heading out for a sunrise hike? 

Don't forget to pack a trusty torch. 

As the early morning light struggles to break through, a torch becomes your reliable companion for navigating trails and avoiding obstacles. 

Opt for budget-friendly and small-sized head torches or flashlights, as they are one of the finest things to pack for a trip.

28. Cap, Your Sun Safety Companion 

Shielding your head and face from the sun is crucial. 

Caps are an affordable solution and one of the must-have things to pack for a trip.

Moreover, they can easily be fastened to the exterior of your backpack if space is limited indoors.

Also Read: Heading to Chennai to spend some leisure time? Check out the best places to stay in Chennai by reading our blog!

Concluding Thoughts 

In conclusion, with this ultimate travel packing checklist encompassing the best things to pack for a trip as your guiding compass, you can savour the joy of exploration.

To further enhance your travels in Chennai, Bangalore, or Bangkok, consider staying at UPAR Hotels, where you can enjoy top-class amenities within your budget.

Upar Hotels boasts captivating properties in Chennai, including T Nagar, Nungambakkam, Thoraipakkam OMR, Uthandi ECR, Ashok Nagar, and Kodambakkam, as well as spreading our wings in Bangalore and Bangkok. 

Each location offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and affordable luxury, making it an ideal choice for solo travellers, family travellers, and business travellers seeking a home away from home.

Why wait? Book now with UPAR Hotels and take your travel journey to the next level, ensuring each is enriching and memorable.

For more insights, explore our other blogs that delve into everything you need to know about hotels, travel, and activities in Chennai, Bangalore, and Bangkok.