2025 long vacation packing list
See my complete packing list and what’s in my bag as I pack for a six-week holiday and hear what I learned and what I should NOT have packed! We are travelling by air from Australia to Canada for two nights in Montreal, then cruising on Oceania Insignia through Canada and New England, arriving in New York. We spend two weeks in New York before hopping on Norwegian Prima for a cruise to Bermuda. We spend two more nights in New York then fly home to Australia. What would you pack? Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalise a purchase. Clothes Handbag and EDC Tech Makeup Toiletries Health and comfort Cruise essentials Miscellaneous
Maximise Your Packing List with Minimalism: Essential Travel Gadgets for Long Flights
Are you ready to revolutionise your packing list? In this blog post, we’ll explore how to go minimalist while highlighting ten game-changing travel gadgets that will become your long-flight essentials. Stick around until the end for a thought-provoking question: Do you really need that everyday carry item when you travel, or even at home? Essential Packing Tips for Your Next Flight Planning your next flight and wondering what to pack for a comfortable journey? In this blog, we’ll reveal the travel essentials you really need and highlight the items you should ditch! From unnecessary tech to bulky accessories, we’ll break down the items that could weigh you down. Get ready to travel smarter and lighter with our expert advice! The Necessity of Hand Sanitiser First up, hand sanitiser. Keeping germs at bay is a must, but instead of a bulky bottle, consider using handy wipes. Not only do these save space in your liquids bag, but they also reduce plastic waste—environmentally friendly and practical! Opt for Eco-Friendly Toiletries When I started my long-haul flying adventures, I was excited about those tiny bottles of moisturiser and mini tubes of toothpaste designed for travellers. However, I quickly realised these single-use items contribute to landfill waste. Now, I collect free samples from beauty purchases or transfer my toiletries into smaller containers, like contact lens cases. This approach minimises plastic waste, saves money, and maximises space in my liquids bag! Power-Up Your Charging Gear When it comes to charging gear, I’ve refined my setup. I stick to USB-C to USB-C cables, but since most flights only have USB-A outlets, I bring a tiny USB-A to USB-C adapter. It’s space-saving, lightweight, and efficient! Choose the Right Power Bank Power banks are essential, but many recommendations fall short for long-haul flights. For instance, the iWalk, with just 4,500 milliamp hours, won’t fully charge an iPhone. Instead, consider the NiteCore NB10,000, which packs ample power in a compact size—perfect for charging multiple devices. For those who prefer a maximalist approach, check out Michael’s favourite power bank with a massive 30,000 milliamp hours. Ditch Bulky Items Many travel YouTubers suggest hefty items like large water bottles and bulky pillboxes. Instead, opt for a collapsible water bottle and pack your pills in ziplock bags—your carry-on (and your back!) will appreciate the extra space. Embrace E-Books If you haven’t converted to e-books yet, what are you waiting for? They significantly lighten your load. A weeklong trip used to mean packing at least four heavy books. Now, I read e-books on my phone or iPad, saving both space and weight while ensuring I always have something to read! Upgrade Your Travel Pillow Ditch that hefty travel pillow for a more compact option. I recommend three alternatives: an inflatable pillow, a stuffable pillow you can fill with a down jacket or hoodie, or the amazing TRTL travel pillow that wraps around your neck like a scarf, offering head support just where you need it. Smart Luggage Choices When it comes to luggage, think strategically. You don’t need a giant suitcase alongside a hefty backpack. I recently used the TomToc 9 litre sling as my personal item, which was spacious enough for my laptop, iPad, and essential gadgets while remaining sleek for airport navigation. Everything was accessible at my seat—no more rummaging in the dark! Rethinking Your Passport Cover Now, let’s discuss passport covers. Are they necessary? Many countries have scanner systems, which can complicate your journey through immigration. Instead, designate a specific pocket in your bag or use a slim wallet that keeps everything handy without fuss. Minimalist Wallet Strategies The wallet is often a cherished item, but do you need a bulky one? I used to carry a beautiful pink Tiffany wallet, but I’ve now switched to a minimalist zip pouch. Recent trips reminded me that I can easily store essentials in my cross-body bag. With options like Apple Wallet and minimal cash needs, my wallet requirements are decreasing! I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Conclusion As we prepare to land, gear up for your next long-haul flight by checking out my video on achieving first-class comfort! Share your favourite travel hacks in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more travel insights. Until next time—safe travels and happy flying! Bye for now! Helpful links Amazon links are affiliate links. Liquid hand sanitiser – https://geni.us/GZl4 Sanitiser wipes – https://geni.us/85Om8M Travel toiletries – https://geni.us/idcKk https://geni.us/gNxd1kj Contact lens cases – https://geni.us/TxQzkYY USB A to C converter – https://geni.us/CRbKWH USB C to C cable – https://geni.us/a3fU USB A to C cable – https://geni.us/uyVr Plug in charger – https://geni.us/BOI64Fs iWalk power bank – https://geni.us/AIKIO8 NiteCore power bank – https://geni.us/81BhBsI High-capacity power bank – https://geni.us/rcw4 Yeti water bottle – https://geni.us/QE2zPF Collapsible water bottle – https://geni.us/77Cu7vJ Pill organiser – https://geni.us/T2I1w Zip lock bags – https://geni.us/FHXI8 Kindle – https://geni.us/0kZe iPad – https://geni.us/vaw0qtA iPhone – https://geni.us/qXmGW eBook – https://geni.us/Gh23dFg Inflatable pillow – https://geni.us/us0sAn Stuffable travel pillow – https://geni.us/Wrj51 TRTL travel pillow – https://geni.us/ABZPEl TomToc sling – https://geni.us/GiXGu Backpack – https://geni.us/fZZiOAb Rollaboard – https://geni.us/SqA6oMX Mimco Classico travel duo gold – https://www.mimco.com.au/classico-travel-duo-pouch-60290317-3718 Bellroy travel wallet – https://geni.us/fIyj4j Other links When we travel, we use the following (may be affiliate links): Phone data: AloSIM eSIMs. Use code 7NBZZYI and click https://alosim.com/ to set up your account. Data and device security: NordVPN https://refer-nordvpn.com/TzKdKQRYawt Tours and tickets: Viator https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link Away luggage. Get $40 off and we get a commission if you use this link: https://referrals.awaytravel.com/away988654 Air Tags have helped us find lost luggage: https://geni.us/BJvW Mardi’s favourite toiletry bag: https://geni.us/sfNf5 Larger containers to decant toiletries into: https://geni.us/qnwvty Philips Hue 2 can be used as a sunrise lamp: https://geni.us/3KW0C Philips Sunrise alarm clock: https://geni.us/QguI Suction hooks for additional hotel storage: https://geni.us/lkS7N Packing cubes: https://geni.us/kLH6D0 Folding lighted makeup mirror: https://geni.us/l4zFp Handheld fan for warmer climates: https://geni.us/RKrn We use this hanging jewellery organiser as a travel medications organiser: https://geni.us/8uILo2D Airfly allows Bluetooth headphones to connect to in-flight entertainment: https://geni.us/A7ytd
