The short checklist. For a long trip, take documents and copies, charged electronics with a power bank, water and a light snack, a basic first-aid kit, things for sleeping and comfort, and a change of clothes for the weather. The main principle is to keep everything you need most in your hand luggage, so it is within reach for the whole journey rather than in the boot or on the top shelf.
A long journey becomes much easier when everything is packed in advance and lies in a clear order. Below is a detailed list by category that works for any transport.
Documents and money
- an identity document and, if needed, travel documents;
- copies of key documents — on paper or saved on your phone;
- children’s documents if you are travelling with a child;
- money and bank cards in different places, not in one wallet.
Electronics and connectivity
- a charged phone and a charger;
- a power bank — especially for long trips without sockets;
- headphones;
- offline maps, books, music or films downloaded in case of weak internet.
Food, water and snacks
- water in a convenient bottle you can refill at stops;
- a light snack that keeps (nuts, bars, fruit);
- your child’s usual food if you are travelling with them.
Comfort and sleep on the way
- a neck pillow, a blanket or a warm jumper;
- a sleep mask and earplugs for overnight trips;
- clothes in layers — transport can be hot or cool;
- wet and dry wipes.
A first-aid kit for the road
- medication you take regularly, with a spare;
- a basic set: painkiller, motion-sickness remedy, plasters;
- any personal items you need.
What goes in hand luggage and what in checked bags
| Hand luggage (always within reach) | Checked bags |
|---|---|
| Documents, money, electronics | Main clothes |
| Water, a snack, medication | Shoes, small everyday items |
| Things for sleeping and comfort | Things you will not need on the way |
A separate list for a trip with a child
If you are travelling with a child, pack a separate bag for them: documents, water and their usual food, nappies and wipes for the smallest, a change of clothes, a favourite toy and something to keep them busy on the way. Keep this bag within reach, not in the checked luggage.
What to bring for a pet
For a trip with a cat or dog, add a carrier, water and their usual food, a bowl, a lead, clean-up bags and a mat with a home scent. For a trip abroad, prepare veterinary documents in advance.
Seasonal additions to the list
- in summer — a hat, sunscreen, more water;
- in winter — warm clothes in layers, spare socks, attention to the road forecast;
- in the shoulder seasons — a raincoat or umbrella and waterproof shoes.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should I bring?
Go by the length of the journey. For long trips it is easier to have a supply and top it up at stops than to run out of water on the way.
What should I bring so I do not get bored?
Download books, music or films offline in advance — there is not always stable internet on the way.
How do I avoid forgetting something important?
Make a short personal checklist and go through it before you leave. The most commonly forgotten items are the charger, medication and children’s documents.
What should I pack for a child?
A separate bag with documents, water, food, hygiene items and entertainment — and keep it within reach.