Are you preparing for a long-term adventure and wondering how to pack without bringing too much? Whether you’re jetting off for months or living the digital nomad life, packing smart is key to staying light, mobile, and ready for any challenge. This guide offers tried-and-tested tips to help you master the art of long-term travel packing, ensuring you have everything you need while keeping your load light.
Packing for an extended trip is different from packing for a weekend getaway. Long-term travel requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need without overpacking. With the right strategy, you can avoid carrying unnecessary weight while still having essentials for any destination or weather.
(In our previous blog, we discussed how to choose the perfect travel backpack. If you want to explore different variables to consider when selecting a backpack, you can read this: Why a Travel Backpack is Your Ultimate Companion)
Before you start packing, always begin with a detailed packing list. This list helps you stay organized and prevents last-minute panic. It ensures you bring only what’s necessary and nothing extra. Break down your list into categories—clothes, toiletries, electronics, documents—to keep things systematic. A well-thought-out packing list helps you stick to the essentials while staying light.
When it comes to long-term travel, the goal is to travel light without sacrificing essential items. Choose multi-functional items such as all-purpose shoes and versatile clothing that can be worn in different settings. While it’s tempting to reduce everything, make sure you don’t skip must-haves like medication, basic toiletries, and travel insurance documents.
Tip: Stick to a capsule wardrobe—neutral colors and multi-use clothing items reduce the number of outfits you need to bring
Merino wool is the holy grail of travel fabrics. It’s moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating, which means you can wear it multiple times before it needs a wash. Packing a few Merino wool t-shirts or base layers will allow you to cut down on the number of clothes you bring.
When packing for long-term travel, layering clothes is key. Rather than packing bulky outerwear, opt for lightweight layers that can be mixed and matched depending on the weather. This allows you to travel across different climates without carrying too many items.
Pro Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your bag, maximizing space and keeping your items accessible
Don’t overload your bag with full-sized toiletries. Stick to travel-sized versions of your everyday products, or switch to solid forms like shampoo bars and solid perfumes. These not only take up less space but also prevent the risk of leaks in your luggage.
Pro Tip: Pack multipurpose toiletries like all-in-one shampoo and body wash to minimize the number of bottles you carry
The best way to pack fewer clothes is to plan for laundry during your trip. Whether you use laundromats, hotel laundry services, or a portable washing system like a Scrubba wash bag, washing your clothes on the road saves you from overpacking. Quick-drying fabrics are your best friend when traveling, so opt for clothes made from materials like polyester or Merino wool.
Your carry-on is precious real estate during long-term travel. Pack your important items—like travel documents, chargers, electronics, and valuables—in your carry-on for easy access. Use compression bags or a packable daypack to store bulkier items or things you might need during transit.
Q: What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing method?
A: The 5 4 3 2 1 method is a minimalist packing strategy often used for shorter trips. It suggests packing 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 dresses or jackets, and 1 swimsuit or accessory. This method encourages a balanced yet compact wardrobe that covers different needs without overpacking.
Q: How do you pack for long-term travel?
A: When packing for long-term travel, the key is to focus on versatile, multi-functional items. Opt for a capsule wardrobe with neutral-colored clothes that can be mixed and matched. Lightweight fabrics like Merino wool are ideal as they’re temperature-regulating and odor-resistant. Using packing cubes and planning to do laundry on the road will also help you pack light but efficiently.
Q: How do I pack for a long international trip?
A: For a long international trip, pack smart by considering the climate of your destination, local customs, and your itinerary. Layering is essential to adjust to different weather conditions, and you should bring travel-sized toiletries or solid alternatives to minimize space. Don't forget important documents, a lightweight adapter for electronics, and a compact travel bag for day trips.
Q: How do you pack for a long trip efficiently?
A: Packing efficiently for a long trip involves rolling clothes instead of folding them, using packing cubes to stay organized, and layering lightweight fabrics. Focus on multi-purpose items like all-weather jackets, shoes that are both stylish and functional, and clothes that can be worn multiple times without needing frequent washing. Plan on doing laundry during your trip to avoid overpacking.
Q: What is the 333 packing rule?
A: The 333 packing rule is based on the idea of minimizing your wardrobe to 33 items of clothing that you wear over 3 months. This capsule wardrobe approach helps you focus on versatile and essential items, reducing excess and making it easier to pack light for extended travel.
Q: What is the 123456 rule of packing?
A: The 123456 rule is another simple approach to packing light: it suggests bringing 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear. This method helps ensure you have enough essentials for your trip without overpacking.
Imagine arriving at your dream destination, ready to explore. But instead of seamless movement, you're struggling with a bulky trolley bag over rough terrain. Maybe your suitcase’s wheels struggled on cobbled streets, or you needed more flexibility than your luggage could offer. The right travel backpack can change your entire travel experience, making it your best companion on the road. In this guide, we’ll explore why backpacks are superior to trolley bags for travelers, the key features to consider, and share a personal experience from our chief photographer, who has traveled to 30 countries with his trusty pack.
Backpacks offer unmatched flexibility for travelers. Unlike trolley bags, which are cumbersome and often challenging to navigate over uneven terrain, backpacks provide mobility, safety, and lightweight design. Nomadic travelers, especially, prefer backpacks because they can easily move between locations without being burdened by bulky luggage. While trolley bags may offer more storage, frequent travelers rarely need that much space. The flexibility and convenience of a backpack, especially in varying weather conditions and rugged landscapes, make it a superior choice.
Choosing the right backpack depends on your travel style and destination. For instance, photographers may need a bigger backpack with space for camera gear, while a light traveler exploring tropical destinations may require something smaller.
When choosing a travel backpack, you need to consider the following essential features:
What is the best size backpack for traveling? A 35-50L backpack is typically ideal for shorter trips and warm destinations. However, if you're traveling for a longer period or to colder regions, a 60-70L backpack might be necessary to accommodate bulkier items like winter clothing.
Is a 40L backpack carry-on size? Yes, a 40L backpack usually meets most airlines' carry-on size restrictions. This makes it a convenient choice for travelers who want to avoid checking in luggage, especially for short trips or minimalist travel styles.
Top loading backpack might seem cool but it is not that convenient in terms of traveling. Imagine you need to take something from the bottom of your bag, let’s say- a sleeping bag. Now, in a top loader bag, you need to take all the stuff out just to get the sleeping bag whereas if it was both a top and front loading bag then it would have been much more convenient.
To ensure the safety of your belongings, you should purchase travel backpacks that have two zippers so that a lock can be used. While traveling, we stay in hostels and share rooms with different people. Without lockable zippers, we will always have a sense of unsafety in such places.
Travel backpacks can put a huge amount of pressure on the shoulder and that is why, the straps should be covered with soft materials. Thus, travel backpacks with padded straps should be purchased.
A bag with multiple compartments should be purchased because it helps in sorting different materials into different sections. For example- clothes will be in the main section, accessories will be in a smaller section, toiletries will be in a different section, and so on. (If you want to learn more about how to pack your belongings in a backpack, then you can read this blog: The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Long-Term Travel in 2025)
Nowadays, most backpacks are made of water-resistant material but many lack a rain cover. As a traveler, you may face different weather conditions and to protect your belongings, a rain cover is a must in a backpack.
A hip belt is a necessary part of a travel backpack as it allows the distribution of load throughout the upper body part. Without a hip belt, the shoulder will be strained and as a result, one can be hindered in traveling
After 6 years and over 30 countries, it’s time to retire my beloved backpack. From the streets of Europe to the mountains of Asia, this bag has been my constant companion. It’s been the most reliable piece of gear I've owned, carrying everything I need and allowing me to move freely wherever I go. As I set my sights on new adventures, it’s time to say goodbye to my faithful friend.
Choosing the perfect travel backpack isn’t just about capacity or looks. It’s about finding a reliable companion that makes your journey smoother, more enjoyable, and hassle-free. By focusing on key features and understanding your own travel needs, you can pick a backpack that will serve you well for years to come.
Q: What is a good backpack for traveling?
A: A good travel backpack should be durable, comfortable, and well-organized. Look for features like padded straps, multiple compartments, and lockable zips. Popular options include Osprey Farpoint, Nomatic Travel Pack, and Tortuga Setout.
Q: What is the best size backpack for traveling?
A: The best size depends on your travel style. For short trips, a 35-50L backpack is ideal. For longer trips or colder destinations, opt for a 60-70L backpack.
Q: What is the best backpack to take on a plane?
A: The best backpack for plane travel should meet carry-on size requirements (around 40L). Brands like Osprey and Tortuga offer excellent options that are both lightweight and functional.
Q: What should I look for in a carry-on backpack?
A: Look for lockable zippers, padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a size that fits within airline carry-on regulations (typically 40-45L).
Q: How do I choose a new backpack?
A: When selecting a backpack, consider your travel destination, trip length, and comfort features like padded straps and a hip belt. Make sure the backpack offers ample security with lockable zips and compartments for better organization.
Picture yourself on the perfect getaway, only for the unexpected to strike—illness, a missed flight, or lost luggage. What’s your plan? Travel insurance could be your lifeline in situations like these, but is it really necessary for every trip? In this guide, we’ll break down when travel insurance is worth it and how it can protect you in 2025, where travel uncertainty is still a reality. Plus, check out our insurance comparison table below to help you find the best policy for your needs.
Travel insurance is a policy designed to protect travelers from unexpected costs and emergencies during their trips. With the travel landscape evolving in 2024, it’s more relevant than ever. Some of the most important areas of coverage include:
(Still deciding whether to hire a travel agent? Read our related post: Should You Hire a Travel Agent in 2025)
Flights can be canceled or delayed for various reasons—illness, severe weather, or even a global health emergency. Travel insurance helps recover your non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel a trip. For example, imagine booking a Caribbean cruise, only for a hurricane to hit, forcing you to cancel—insurance can save you from losing your money.
Baggage loss can be stressful, especially if it happens at the start of your trip. Travel insurance can reimburse you for essentials like clothes and toiletries until your luggage is found. It can also cover costs for permanently lost or stolen items, helping you avoid financial setbacks.
Most health insurance policies do not cover medical expenses when you’re abroad. Travel insurance can take care of emergency medical bills, hospital stays, or evacuations. This is particularly useful for countries with high medical costs or when traveling to remote areas where healthcare access is limited.
While travel insurance provides great protection, it’s important to know its limits. Here are a few things typically excluded:
Travel insurance often won’t cover medical issues that existed before purchasing the policy, unless you declare them and choose a plan that specifically includes them. For example, if you have a heart condition and it worsens during the trip, your claim may be denied if it was not disclosed in advance.
Events like pandemics, natural disasters, or political unrest that were ongoing before purchasing the policy are usually not covered. For instance, if you're planning to visit a country experiencing active civil unrest, you won’t be able to claim any losses related to this issue.
Any accidents or losses incurred while engaging in illegal activities, including drug use, will not be covered by travel insurance. This exclusion also applies to reckless behavior or injuries resulting from intoxication.
Travel insurance isn't always necessary, but it becomes essential depending on certain factors like where you're traveling, the type of trip, and the risks involved. Here’s when it makes the most sense:
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for international trips, especially to countries where healthcare can be expensive. It protects you from unforeseen events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage, ensuring you won't face hefty out-of-pocket costs.
Cruises present specific risks such as medical emergencies at sea or weather-related cancellations. Cruise-specific insurance can help cover expensive evacuations and missed connections, so it's a smart choice if you're planning a cruise.
It’s best to purchase travel insurance right after making your initial trip deposit. This ensures you're covered for trip cancellations due to sudden emergencies and gives you a window for coverage on pre-existing medical conditions.
To help you choose the best travel insurance policy, here’s a comparison of some popular providers based on their key features, coverage, and premium range:
| Insurance Provider | Key Features | Coverage | Premium Range (Approximate) | Buying Link |
| Allianz Global Assistance | Comprehensive coverage, 24/7 emergency assistance | Medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and more | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.allianz.co.uk/insurance/travel-insurance.html |
| World Nomads | Flexible plans for backpackers and long-term travelers | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.worldnomads.com/ |
| Travel Insured International | Adventure sports coverage, various plans | Medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, adventure sports | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.travelinsured.com/ |
| Seven Corners | Customizable plans, various levels of coverage | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.sevencorners.com/ |
| InsureandGo | Budget-friendly options, basic coverage | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £10 - £60 per person | https://www.insureandgo.com/ |
| Travelex | Affordable plans, various coverage options | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £10 - £60 per person | https://www.travelexinsurance.com/ |
| SquareTravel | Budget-friendly plans, essential coverage | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £10 - £60 per person | https://www.squaremouth.com/ |
| IMG Global | Specialized plans for students, seniors, and medical professionals | Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.imglobal.com/ |
| Travel Guard | Trip cancellation and interruption coverage, various add-ons | Medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, add-ons | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.travelguard.com/ |
| AIG Travel | Comprehensive plans with emergency medical evacuation | Medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, emergency medical evacuation | £20 - £100 per person | https://www.aig.com/home/risk-solutions/individual/travel-guard |
While travel insurance isn’t mandatory for every trip, it’s invaluable for high-risk travel, such as international vacations, cruises, or regions with costly healthcare. It provides peace of mind by protecting against scenarios that could ruin your trip and your finances.
Q: Does my credit card cover travel insurance?
A: Some credit cards offer limited travel insurance, typically covering trip cancellations or delays but rarely medical emergencies. A dedicated travel insurance policy offers more comprehensive protection.
Q: Will my health insurance cover me abroad?
A: Most health insurance policies, including Medicare, do not cover international medical expenses. Travel insurance provides coverage for emergencies, including hospital visits, evacuations, and more.
Q: How much does travel insurance cost?
A: Typically, travel insurance costs 4-8% of your total trip price. The exact cost depends on factors like your age, destination, and the level of coverage you choose.
In a world where every trip can be planned with just a few clicks, you might wonder: What does a travel agent do in 2025? or Is it worth going to a travel agent anymore? While many people prefer to book their own travel, travel agents still offer valuable services that could save you time, money, and headaches. In this guide, we’ll explore when it’s beneficial to hire a travel agent, when you should skip one, and what to expect from them in 2025.
Travel agents have evolved with the times, offering more than just booking flights and accommodations. In 2024, travel agents provide highly personalized, curated experiences that you may not easily find online. They handle complex logistics, like coordinating multi-city tours, securing hard-to-get reservations, or arranging luxury experiences that require insider knowledge. Whether it’s navigating tricky visa requirements or planning an off-the-beaten-path itinerary, travel agents ensure a hassle-free, organized trip.
Additionally, agents have access to deals that may not be publicly available online, including exclusive discounts, upgrades, and packages.
Whether it's worth going to a travel agent depends largely on the complexity of your trip. If you're planning a simple weekend getaway, you might not need one. But for more elaborate trips, such as international vacations, cruises, or multi-destination tours, hiring a travel agent can save you time and effort while also offering perks like room upgrades, event tickets, or guided tours. Plus, agents often help you handle unexpected disruptions like canceled flights or sudden changes in travel restrictions, ensuring you're never stranded.
For example, if you're traveling to multiple countries with different visa requirements, or you're planning a honeymoon with luxury experiences, travel agents are experts at making your trip seamless and unforgettable.
There are definitely times when you should skip using a travel agent. If you're traveling domestically or on a tight budget, booking everything yourself through travel apps or websites might be the better option. DIY travel planning is more suitable for travelers who enjoy researching and are willing to take the time to find deals. If you're the type who loves the thrill of planning and enjoys controlling every aspect of your trip, planning it yourself may be more rewarding.
Despite the rise of online booking platforms, travel agents continue to thrive in 2024 by offering personalized services and expert insights that you can’t always find through self-booking platforms. They are especially relevant for travelers seeking unique experiences, complex itineraries, or VIP treatment. The travel industry, particularly after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, has become more complicated with ever-changing travel restrictions, making agents valuable resources for staying up to date with the latest requirements.
In fact, many travelers now seek out agents for help navigating the complexities of post-pandemic travel. As travelers increasingly value curated, personalized experiences, the demand for knowledgeable agents who can provide insider access and perks continues to grow.
Half the joy of travel is in the planning. For some, creating their itinerary feels like the first part of the adventure. DIY travel allows you to research destinations, explore local cultures, and customize every detail of your trip. Planning yourself can be exciting and rewarding—whether it's finding hidden gems, learning about the history of a place, or carefully crafting a budget-friendly itinerary that aligns with your needs.
Travel agencies can offer a variety of safety measures for a worry-free travel experience. From providing financial assistance through insurance to dealing with unexpected situations, travel agents are there to provide you safety (If you want to learn more about travel insurance and how it works, then you can read out this following blog: Do You Really Need Travel Insurance in 2025?). However, you may not opt to have a travel agent and go on your own to explore the mysteries of the world. Many travelers do that and keep on learning as they continue to travel but does that mean they compromise on their safety? The answer is no. There are many ways to ensure safety and tackle travel disruptions. Among such options, using a tour guide platform can ensure one about the appropriate places to visit through legitimate channels. “GuruWalk” is a platform that allows you to find and book free and budget tours with trained and trusted local guides. These tours offer a fantastic way to explore new cities and engage in authentic local culture without the high price. Instead of relying on traditional travel agents, these local trusted guides can be an exciting way to explore the culture of different cities. If you want to book a trip to your desired city through “GuruWalk”, go through the following link: https://www.guruwalk.com/?ref=sfiqhookob2989c439ob
Even if you choose to work with a travel agent, doing your own research enhances your travel experience. Research helps you adjust to cultural differences, learn about unique local customs, and discover hidden spots that might not be included in a pre-arranged itinerary. When you know more about your destination, you’re better prepared to interact with locals, navigate public transportation, and make informed decisions on activities and dining.
Many of you may decide to hire a travel agent. However, you can still be rattled by the huge number of travel agents available to you. In short, choosing a trustworthy travel agent can be quite draining. That is why, we present you with our top picks of travel agencies in Europe.
| Travel Agency | Link | Most Available | Most Affordable | Most Luxurious |
| Expedia UK | https://expedia.com/affiliate/8mcP8T8 | High | High | Medium |
| Sunshine.co.uk | https://www.sunshine.co.uk/ | Medium | High | Low |
| Hays Travel | https://www.haystravel.co.uk/ | High | High | Medium |
| TUI UK | https://www.tui.co.uk/ | High | Medium | Medium |
| Virgin Holidays | https://www.virginholidays.co.uk/ | Medium | Medium | High |
| Teletext Holidays | https://www.teletextholidays.co.uk/ | Medium | Low | Medium |
| London Travel Service | https://www.londontravelservice.com/ | High | Medium | Medium |
| The Travel Hack | https://www.thetravelhack.com/ | Medium | High | Medium |
| Mr & Mrs Smith | https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/ | Low | High | High |
| Black Tomato | https://www.blacktomato.com/ | Medium | High | High |
| Scott Dunn | https://www.scottdunn.com/ | Low | High | High |
| Western & Eastern | https://www.westernoriental.com/ | Medium | Medium | High |
| Audley Travel | https://www.audleytravel.com/ | Low | Medium | High |
| Intrepid Travel | https://www.intrepidtravel.com/uk/ | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Responsible Travel | https://www.responsibletravel.com/ | Medium | Medium | Medium |
Deciding whether or not to hire a travel agent in 2024 ultimately depends on your travel style, the complexity of your trip, and the level of personal involvement you want in planning. For luxury vacations, multi-destination itineraries, or trips requiring specific logistics like visas or group bookings, a travel agent can be a huge asset. However, for simpler trips, self-planning can be more fun, affordable, and rewarding. Whichever route you take, make sure to do your research and plan for a safe, enjoyable trip!