So you’re all set for the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams.  You’ve booked the flights and hotel, taken that scuba class, and brushed up on your Hula dancing. Next up: packing your bags.

What To Pack for Vacation

Your Summer Vacation Packing List

The mileage may vary, but no matter how near or far you're traveling, this essential packing list will get you there.

The Necessities

There are some essentials you should pack on every trip. These may seem obvious, but it’s important to add them to your list anyway and check them off as they’re packed. No one wants to be the person who gets to the other side of the world and realizes they left their wallet behind. These include:

• Passport and/or identification
• Money — cash, credit, checks
• Keys
• Cell phone
• Phone charger
• All medications — enough for every day of your trip, plus a few extras
• Physical printouts of any tickets you’ve purchased in advance (even if you have digital versions)

Sightsee in Style With Everyday Bags

In addition to your luggage, bring a few extra bags. Once you get to your destination, you'll need a reliable bag to carry the essentials while you're exploring. Away bags offer both durability and style to last trip after trip, and they come with plenty of pockets to pack everything you need.

A tote, crossbody, or backpack is important for carrying around your wallet, identification, or other necessities while exploring your destination. You may need a few different sizes of bags for different purposes.

• Clutch or handbag for bringing only the essentials such as money and an ID
• Purse or tote for carrying a few extra things, such as hand sanitizer, a snack, or a small paperback to read between activities
• Backpack for carrying extra water, snacks, a change of clothes, a camera, and some first aid supplies

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Stay Dressed to the Nines

You'll want to make sure you've packed the right clothes for wherever your travels take you. The types of clothing you'll want depends on your plans, but here are some basics to pack for any trip:

• Warm-weather clothing, usually T-shirts, shorts, or sundresses
• Cool-weather clothing such as a sweater or jeans, in case the temps drop
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Extra pair of walking shoes
• Formalwear such as a suit or dress
• Outfit you’re comfortable getting dirty
• Pajamas
• Intimates 
• Bathing suit

When choosing your outfits, plan one for each day, plus a few extras in case of spills or travel delays. Include some mix-and-match basics — every trip wardrobe needs a plain white tee, some comfy jeans, or an iconic little black dress. Don’t forget to throw a spare outfit in your carry-on or personal item in case of lost luggage.

Don't Forget Those Oh-So-Essential Items

While you may not need your whole skincare routine for a few days,  you’ll at least need a bag of basic toiletries to help you feel fresh when temps spike and waiting on the tarmac can be sweltering:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Body wash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Perfume or cologne
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Sunscreen
• Any products that must be used daily, including medicated products, contacts, or glasses

Note: If you’re flying in or out of the U.S., remember that liquids need to be in a clear bag and no larger than three ounces to pass TSA inspection. International travel may have additional regulations. For longer trips, we suggest traveling with your must-haves and purchasing smaller sizes of liquids once you arrive.

Let's Talk Tech

Even if you’re planning an unplugged vacation, there is some tech you’ll likely want to bring, such as a cell phone and charger for emergencies. If you’re not going tech-free, here are a few basics you may want:

• Tablet for movies, mobile games, or e-books
• Laptop
• Headphones, both wired and wireless, as most airline entertainment still requires a physical jack
• Camera
• Smartwatch
• Chargers for all your devices

Bonus tip: You can use a tech organizer or laptop sleeve to keep your cords from getting tangled or lost in your suitcase. This can also keep things from being left behind when packing for your return trip.

Summer Vacation Miscellaneous Must-Haves

There are some things you’ll want that may not fit into any other category. These might include:

• Umbrella
• Beach read
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Refillable water bottle
• Dry  bag
• Waterproof phone case
• Beach towel

Packing Essentials for Every Summer Escape

Some trips require a few extras or variations on the standard vacation packing list. If your summer vacation will be taking you beyond the basics, there are a few things you'll want to consider.

How To Pack for a Cruise Vacation

Spending the summer on the seas? We've got what you need to make waves. Cruises are known for exotic locations, fine dining, and plenty of activities. With that in mind, you’re going to wish for a few extras in your bag.

First, you’ll probably want more than one fancy outfit. If you’re taking advantage of the fine dining options — as you should — there may be a dress code. An extra suit or dress certainly can’t hurt. Bring a garment bag to ensure your ensembles stay crisp and neat.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, some activities and excursions can get messy. Bring a few extra clothing changes, including some you won’t mind getting dirty, just in case.

Finally, you’ll want a small purse or waist bag to carry around the ship. You won't need much since most food and activities are included, but you’ll still want easy access to your cell phone, ship card, and small items such as hand sanitizer, lip balm, or a book.

Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs. With all those amazing destinations, you'll definitely want to bring a few things back to the mainland.

How To Pack for a Beach Vacation

If you’re planning on soaking up the sun on a beach vacation, remember those rays come with their own packing needs. You’ll be spending a lot more time in the sun, surf, and sand, so plan accordingly.

Extra sunscreen on a beach trip is a must. Even if you’re tanning, a low-SPF lotion can help you bronze without baking. If you're flying there, consider grabbing your sunscreen after you arrive to avoid packing it.

If you’ll be getting in the water a lot, you may also want extra swimsuits and towels. Putting on a still-wet swimsuit is uncomfortable and near-impossible, so it’s better to give your suit an extra day to dry while you use a backup. Likewise, a wet towel won’t be much use for drying off.

Sand has a habit of getting everywhere, so bring some sandals or flip-flops that are easier to clean than closed shoes. A mesh tote bag can help you carry your extra beach books without collecting a layer of sand in the bottom, and a waterproof tote can keep your beach reads from getting warped if the tide comes in too quickly. Away totes are resistant to water, weather, and wear, making them ideal for any outdoor trip.

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How To Pack for an Outdoor Vacation

Hiking the Rockies, camping in the Utah desert, or sailing off the coast of Maine — these trips bring on the thrills, but they can also change the way you pack. Fortunately, we have suitcases and bags that are adventure-ready for any terrain.

The first consideration is the weather. If you’re planning on being outside for a long time, you may run into rain. A waterproof tote bag like Away's Active 45L Tote can protect your things, rain or shine. Away active backpacks have the durability to withstand any weather, and the flexibility and comfort to hold everything you need without becoming cumbersome. This is great for including outdoor necessities such as rain gear, first aid supplies, extra water, and tools.

Be sure to pack a portable charger — you don't want your phone to die while you're trying to capture summer memories.

How To Pack for International Summer Travel

International travel can be a great experience as long as you’re properly prepared. Remember that your hometown might be sweltering, but the Southern Hemisphere is likely feeling a chill. Some countries have wetter or milder summers than others — check the forecast to see what kind of weather you should expect and plan your wardrobe accordingly.

Some things you may want on an international summer vacation include:

• A language guide for any country where you’re not fluent in the native language
• Charging adapters are available if the destination uses outlets different from your home country
• A carry-on bag with plenty of pockets for your passport, extra identification, customs papers, and anything else you might need quick access to during the flight
• An everyday bag with pockets that zip or lock to keep your passport, cell phone, and credit cards safe

Bring an extra bag or leave plenty of room in one for souvenirs. An international trip can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you’ll want some things to remember it by.

Packed and Ready To Get Away

No matter your packing needs or the destination, Away has your back. Our luggage provides the perfect Travel Uniform to carry you to your destination in style. Whether you're setting sail or heading to the mountains, we have luggage, bags, and accessories for every trip and every traveler.