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Our Packing Lists

What We Pack

open suitcase full of items

Here are a few of our favorites for our group trips (they are great go-tos for our solo travelers and honeymooners too).

Make sure to check out our Travel Essentials + Book Shelf page

“He who would travel happily must travel light.” -Antoine de St. Exupery

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Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Luggage: Check-in, Personal Item, and Daybags

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Bagsmart Underseater - Lightweight and efficient.
Checked Rolling / Soft-sided and rugged Expedition-style Duffle by Gonex70L Water Repellent Wheeled Travel Duffel Luggage with Rollers 25 inch, Olive Green
Bagsmart 40L Rolling Duffel with shoe compartment.
Osprey Daylite Duffel with Backpack Straps - At just over 1 lb., this is a perfect carry-on solution to beat those International Carry-on weight restrictions. We love the pockets and organization and external mesh water bottle pocket. Check out the 30 Liter size which works great as a personal item bag. (Note that currently the red version is about $10 less than other colors in the 45L size)
Bagsmart Travel Backpack
tomtoc Compact Everyday Carry Sling Bag (several sizes) - makes this a great personal item option. You'll be amazed at what thus will hold. Best coupled with a backpack (carry-on size).
Samsonite 22 Inch Rolling Duffel (Works on most International Carriers as Carryon)
COR Surf Carry On Travel Backpack Bundle Travel Backpack with Toiletry Bag and Compression Packing Cube Set (38L, Red)
Hap Tim Brand (Budget) Travel Laptop Backpack

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Inflight Amenities

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Big Skinny RFID Blocking Traveler Slim Passport Wallet
compression sock
Compression Socks - A tried and true brand to keep your circulation flowing.
foot hammock
Foot Hammock - One of our most popular items for Economy Class travelers. This will save you from excessively swollen legs, we promise.
Soundcore by Anker Space Q45 Noise Cancelling Headphones
Wireless AirPods Adaptor - If you are using AirPods as your noise cancelling headphones to watch the airline’s inflight entertainment, you’ll need this! (These are versions allowing for two travelers to plug into one and watch the same programming.)
travel blanket and hoodie
Travel Blanket with Hoody - When you aren’t quite comfortable with that thin fleece blanket in Economy Class, this is a great solution for those chilly long distance flights. You will love the hoody when you just want to sleep and not be interrupted.

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Organization

There’s nothing better than a well organized travel gear system. Here are a few of our favorites:

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Tech and Misc Gear Pouches
Seat Back Organizer
Packable Daypack - A great way to carry your sunscreen, camera, water bottle OR bring it along in your purse for shopping excursions. This is a good price because Osprey is discontinuing (new model out now). There are a million packable daypacks but Osprey makes the best and worth the money for the water bottle holder. (Trust us, we have tried a dozen.)
Travelon Compact Sling - Like the crossbody travel day bags we all have, but sling-style cut to for perfectly on your chest for easy and safer access at border control. Slash proof and locking zips. A winner.
Clean/Dirty 2 Sided Packing Cube Eagle Creek’s two sided packing cube is perfect for storing your dirty clothes on one side and clean clothes on the other. We like to keep swimsuits and beach wear on the clean clothes side but you can organize it however you choose.
blue duffel bag
Packable Duffel for Souvenirs - This is a tried and true travel hack. The 60L is a great item to bring along. Keep it all packed up in its pocket pouch until you are ready to pack your souvenirs for the flight home. You are allowed two checked bags on International Flights so make sure you do most of your shopping at your last stop.
Toiletry Bag
Compression Packing Cube Set with Laundry Bag - We love these compression cubes both for space saving and organization. Try our hack of either getting a couple sets and color coordinate your cubes’ contents or use some painter’s take and write on the cubes what is inside. This laundry bag that is included is perfect for gathering your dirty clothes to take them to the laundry shop.

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Tech + Electronics

You won’t get far without your chargers and adaptors. Depending on where you go, you may or may not need converters. Ask before you buy!

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Outlet Plugs for Thailand and Cambodia (need Type C for Cambodia)
Ceptics 200 W Voltage Converter, Convert 220 V to 110V for Devices Like Curling Iron, Straightener, Chargers, Step Down World Power Plug - 4 USB PD 18W Fast Charging - EU/AU/UK/US Included (Type C included -Bali compatible)
5-in-1 65W USB C Power Strip with 5’ Cord
Desktop Travel Fan
Phone case with strap - Traveling can set up up for bring off guard. We are out of our element, trying to negotiate things in a different language and new time zone. Keep your most important travel essential close at all times.
Evergoods CIVIC ACCESS POUCH 2L - Hands down the best electronics kit for travel. You’ll stay organized in flight and in your hotel with this well thought out kit.
Portable Charger, 5200mAh Built in Cable and Detachable AC Wall Plug, Compact Battery Pack for iPhone 15/14/13/12, Apple Watch, AirPods, and More
Apple AirTags - A must for iPhone owners, you’ll feel a sense of ease knowing your bag is on the plane.
International Travel Power Adapter, LENCENT Mini All-in-One Charger - This all-in-one is a breath of fresh air for those who think the cube style all-in-one adaptors are too bulky.
gray electronics organizer
The second of two electronics organizers we really like
Laptop Charger - Travelers with laptops will want this 65 Watt GaN Power Strip with USB ports. You won’t need your regular bulky laptop charger with this all-in-one unit. Currently 25% off.
portable charger
Power Bank with Battery Life Display - Anker isn’t the only name in the power bank game. We love this less expensive version and have never had an issue with it’s operation. In fact the digital display with battery percentage remaining is super practical for travel.
short charging cables
Short Charging Cables - All of your cables don’t have to be 6 feet long. These shorties are perfect for recharging your items on the go.
Ereader
E Reader – This is an unbeatable price! These are great for the flight which will be dark most of the journey because they have their own light source.

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

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Tropic Feel Shoes Homepage Link

A few of our tried and true tropical clothing options for women.

Women’s Temple Pants
Lightweight Travel / Workout Joggers (Lululemon Dupe)
brown pants
Royal Robbins Adjustable Travel Pants - Whether you need a long pant for the flight or capris allowing for a cooler option, this pant is your two in one go to.
scarf
Scarf (for Temples) - A scarf is a travel essential, especially for counties where you will visit temples. It works as sun protection, an air conditioner blocker, or an accessory for a fancy dinner. Light colors are recommended to beat the heat.
Columbia shirt sleeved shirt
Women’s Travel / Hiking Shorts (9”)
light blue denim shorts
Light Denim Beach Shorts - Too short for temples and palaces, these can be worn around Thai islands and resorts.
Prana Corissa Dress - This wrap around dress is a great travel dress choice.
Chacos Classic Z1 Sandal - Perfect for the beach or an easy hike, these are the perfect travel shoe.
long cover up dress
Short-Sleeved Beach Dress/Cover-Up - This longer beach cover up is a great option for locales where cultural differences require a bit more fabric.
Light and comfy Baggy Travel Pants
tankini
Tankini - A simple tankini, practical for pool or beach.
Women’s Swimsuit Coverup Blouse
Rain Poncho - It usually always rains in Asia, but in rainy season, don’t get caught without your poncho.
black sports bra
Boody Body EcoWear Women's Padded Shaper Bra Organic Bamboo Wireless Seamless Light Bra W/Removable Padding Soft Comfortable
beach_coverup_skirt
Beach Cover Up Skirt - A Rip skirt knock off that’s perfect for lunch by the pool or at a beach side cafe. It has quick dry material and is very light weight. Great to wear on the boat too.
uv-shirt
Travel blouse with UV - Quick dry, breathable, light/cooling with roll-up sleeves. Fits better and more consistent than Columbia. Don’t size up.
Royal Robbins Bergin Skirt - A great travel skirt. Note that it is too short for temple use.
tan beach hat
Foldable Sun Hat - Just bring a hat. Baseball hat or anything. You will need it in the tropical sun.

Men’s Best Bets

Travel Day Boxers for traveling across sketchy borders. The hidden pocket in these anti-theft boxers can hold money, keys, or even a passport.
white long sleeve shirt for men
Cotton and flax make this a cool and comfortable long sleeved option for temples or dressier days in tropical climates.
men's gray hiking pants
Mens Hiking Pants Convertible Quick Dry Lightweight Zip Off Travel Safari Pants
Souvenir Trucker Hat - Bring a fun trucker hat you can leave behind with the local who touched your soul. They usually love these especially with sport teams’ logos or movies or tv shows.
Chacos Slides
Swim Trunks
We love these wider mesh caps for hiking or just keeping the sun off your face. They are a much lighter option to trucker hats.
sunhat with string
A cooling sun hat with mesh vents can be wetted on hot days. Can't beat this price!

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Toiletries

From bug spray to dry shampoo, we’ve got the items you might not think of listed here

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Travel Sized Bronzer- comes with a sponge to apply AND the lid has a mirror! Quite possibly, a three-in-one travel essential. (More shades available)
Multi Symptom Imodium – You’ll probably need this at least once during your trip. Cipro is readily available in Boots or other pharmacies in Southeast Asia, so if you find yourself using more than 3 of these tablets, you might want to switch to Cipro to be safe.
electrolyte drink mix packets
Electrolytes – Whether it’s because you are dehydrated from the heat or from stomach or health issues, you will appreciate having these in your toiletry kit.
Best Toiletry Kit - It opens up for on counter use and has a hanging device if counter space is limited. The internal organization is the best we’ve seen.
sun bum face mist
Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist 3.4 oz.
motion sickness wristbands
Motion Sickness Bands, Nausea Wristbands for Car Sickness, Relief Wristbans for Mornig Sea Flying Travel
sun bum sunscreen
Reef Friendly Sunscreen (Face SPF 50) - Always use Reef Friendly products and when you can, rinse off when entering the ocean. Let’s respect our fish friends.
Saint Claire's herbal pastilles
St. Claire's Organic Herbal Pastilles, (Ginger, 1.5 Ounce Tin, Bundle of 3) | Gluten-Free, Vegan, GMO-Free, Plant-based,
eco friendly sun creme
Reef Friendly Sport Sun Crème - Always use Reef Friendly products and when you can, rinse off when entering the ocean. Let’s respect our fish friends.
Eco Friendly Mosquito Repellent - On occasion, we will make you our special insect repellant ($10 for 3 oz), but in a pinch, this is an excellent brand.

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Other Gear + Gadgets

Click any image to purchase on Amazon

Dual Voltage Flat Iron (works everywhere in the world without a power converter)
yellow dry bag with black strap
Dry Bag for Island Hopping - It you plan to go snorkeling from a boat, we recommend bring one of these along. And check out the water bottle holder!
Peak Design Fold-up Shopping Tote This durable, packable tote has a shoulder strap for easy carry and a zip to keep unwanted hands off your mangoes.
blue neckband
5000mAh Battery Operated Neckband Fan - Might be worth a try if humidity is an issue.
Tiny Fan with tons on power. Fits on your backpack strap
TSA Approved Travel Lock - You will need a couple.
Water Bottle/Coffee Cup
airpods
Use your AirPods on the plane. Bluetooth Transmitter Receiver 2-in-1 for Airplanes Boats Treadmill Gaming
Stainless Steel Flatware Set - Let’s try to avoid the plastic problem on this planet. Street food hawkers will wrap your mango sticky rice is 7 layers of plastic and hand you an individually wrapped plastic spork that will snap from flimsiness. Say no to plastic. (Bamboo options are available in Asia or online.)
packable beach blanket
Beach Blanket - Packable - A new item on our packing list, but at this size and weight, why not? Use it to sit on the grass or take it to the beach instead of a sarong, because those take a week to dry in the humid climate.
Picaridin Mosquito Repellent Lotion - Comes in these individually wrapped packets of small bottles (and spray). Not reef friendly.
Travel Umbrella - Rain or shine, you’ll be happy you brought a travel umbrella.
Bottle Attachment - Works with thin neck water bottles and (ugh) plastic soft drink bottles, etc. Great way to go hands free with your refreshment.
Hero Clip (2 medium) - If you haven’t heard of these, check this out. Use them for hanging your bag up in the public toilets or on the minivan.
Murphy's mosquito incense
Murphy's - makes a few finds of anti mosquito incense products. Tried and true are the coils and these Insence Sticks. DEET Free with Plant Based Essential Oils and 2.5 Hour Protection.
micro fiber towels
We recently discovered these Matador knock offs and live them for the price. Microfiber towels for a variety of activities when carrying a hotel pool towel is just too bulky cumbersome. (Snorkeling and diving, waterfalls and rafting, beach days, to name a few.)
TSA 3-1-1 Liquid Pouch Quart Size (International Carry On)

Luggage

Inflight Amenities

Organization

Tech + Electronics

Clothes + Shoes + Accessories

Toiletries

Other Gear + Gadgets

Health + Dietary Packables

Health + Dietary Packables

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Vietnamese Lavender Latte
Organic Oat Powder (10 Carbs/packet)
Sahale Snacks
Miso Soup (Instant) Packets
Calm Magnesium Citrate (Original , Lemon, Orange flavors)
RX Nut Butter Almond Butter
Hydralyte Verisol Collagen and Electrolyte Packets (please see other Electrolyte suggestions in Toiletries sections above
Pre-Probiotics
Reusable Ziplock Bags- Assorted sizes for all sorts of items including food and even items you need in flight (store in setback pocket)
cafe bustelo instant coffee
Instant Coffee Packets – Hotels in Asia come equipped with water boiling kettles with tea and instant coffee. There’s never enough if you are a true coffee drinker (and you may not like the weak flavor of Nescafe or similar.
Olive Snack Packs (Variety)
Collagen Coffee Creamer
Lenny and Larry Snack Size Mini Cookies
Unflavored Marine Collagen
More electrolytes (so you have options)

Packing Lists

Southeast Asia

Costa Rica Trip Packing List

Clothes:

Toiletries:

Medications and First Aid:

Gadgets and Electronics: