luggage for asia trip

The foolproof packing list for Asia: 16 must-have travel essentials

Welcome to our ultimate packing list for Asia travel essentials

From mountainous jungle to enticing oceans, massive religious monuments to historical ruins, Asia has so much to discover. When you also consider how cheaply you can travel much of the continent, there is no wonder it is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world.

Given that Asia is so immense, many visitors opt to travel slowly across Asia to absorb as much of the beauty and culture as possible. 

With that in mind, we have come up with this handy packing list for Asia travel fundamentals and gadgets to help long term travelers and short term tourists alike.

Where the recommended product is a little expensive, we have also recommended a budget option too.

You may also enjoy:

• Best International Travel Surge Protector
• Best Extension Cord For International Travel
• Best Travel Crib For Flying | Top 10 And Buying Guide

Coming up Traveling Fundamentals Recommended travel tech Travel Health The ultimate must-have essential Affiliate disclosure: The links to tours or accommodation in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase after following one of these links, I make a small commission at no cost to yourself. Think of it like a win-win ?

Traveling Fundamentals

A bloody good backpack.

You gotta have one of these if your backpacking right? Since there is tons of walking when visiting Asia, a comfortable and well-organized backpack is a travel necessity. 

There are a couple of things you may want to consider before investing in a backpack. First is if it has waterproof features, it is common to get caught in sudden downpours in certain parts of Asia frequently.

The other important consideration is if you be checking it in. If you plan not to, make sure it fits the requirements of a carry on backpack .

We recommend: Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 travel backpack

Of course, the backpack you need will depend heavily on the size you require, however you cannot go far wrong with the Osprey brand. One such backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40 that opens like a suitcase. Made of a durable material osprey Farpoint 40 boasts of roomy compartments, a plethora of pockets and lockable zips to keep your all your travel gears intact. For maximum comfort when covering long distances, the pack has generous padding and adjustable straps for perfect fitting.  The long-term traveler will appreciate the padded laptop sleeve and a lifetime warranty that comes with Osprey products. 

On a tight budget? Try the Gonex 55L hiking backpack with rain cover

Packing Cubes 

When I discovered packing cubes, it was a game changer when packing for long-term travel. They maximized space and helped my previously disaster zone of a backpack to stay organized. They also come in handy when separating clean clothes from dirty ones. The good thing is that they come in various sizes to accommodate different sizes of clothes. For easier identification of the piles of crap that will accumulate in your backpack,  you may find it easier to pack in cubes of different colors.

We recommend: Eagle Creek Pack It Original Starter Set

Eagle Creek makes excellent packing cubes. They are lightweight, washable, and made of top quality fabric. With over four colors and different sizes to choose from Eagle Creek is a must have for every backpacker.

On a tight budget? Try the 7-pc Travel Packing Cube System

Backpack lock

Traveling with unlocked luggage can weigh on your mind, especially when you are in dorms. Now I will happily say that almost all of the hostels that I have stayed in, I have felt confident that my stuff is safe, but there is always one or two where you feel a little nervous about leaving things behind. opportunity. That is why I have tracked down some backpack locking systems for my packing list for Asia.

We recommend: Pacsafe Backpack and Bag Protector

For ultimate peace of mind, take a look at this full on wire mesh backpack lock. You just slip the backpack in there, lock it up and no one will be getting in.

On a tight budget? Try the TSA Approved Luggage Locks

While these locks aren’t perfect, most thefts are a spur of the moment decisions and by adding a lock to your backpack, it will certainly deter thieves. The cables on these locks are a good length and should slip over most buckles as well as zips. If it is too small, you can always connect two together.

Ultra-portable water  bottles

To keep well hydrated and save on the cost of purchasing bottled water ever time, one of the best travel accessories to pack is a lightweight bottle.  Reusable water bottles also help in reducing plastic waste accumulation. Since drinking water is readily available in Asia, you just fill your bottle before long day adventures and enjoy your travels.

We recommend: Vapur Element BPA Free Foldable Water Bottle

Vapur element flexible bottle is a great solution. It is foldable, takes up little space, is cheap and BPA free. You can freeze water with them, and they are easy to clean.

On a tight budget? Try the Qnch Collapsible Water Bottle

Portable luggage scale 

Overweight luggage can decimate your budget quicker than an ice cream melts on the equator. So to avoid this, a great little accessory is a small luggage scale.

We recommend: Camry luggage scale

With Camry portable travel scale, there is no more guesswork or excess baggage you can travel confidently. Camry is accurate, easy to hook on the bag, and is small enough to fit in your backpack. This handheld digital scale comes with a battery that holds power for a long time. The digital readout display is visible and large. 

A headlamp is a  great travel accessory for outdoor activities, especially for long-term travelers backpacking Asia.  Whether it is during unexpected power outages, hiking at dusk or merely trying to find the toilet at midnight in a dorm room when others are sleeping, headlamps are part and parcel of your travel packing list.  

Unlike a flashlight, the great thing with headlamps is that they free your hands so you can multitask while ensuring your path is well lighted.

We recommend: GRDE rechargeable headlamp

We love the GRDE rechargeable headlamp, it is one one the brightest headlamps available while also being waterproof should you get caught in the rain. We also love the fact that it is a rechargeable headlamp but it can also be powered by standard batteries should you find yourself away from power for an extended period of time. Finally, it boasts of three brightness level that can be adjusted by the switch (perfect for not disturbing dorm mates), lightweight and has a comfortable and adjustable strap.

On a tight budget? Try the LE Headlamp with 4 lighting modes

Microfiber travel towel

Trust us when we say a packable travel towel is essential travel gear. We have seen many of the rentable towels in hostels, and quite frankly, we’d rather not see them again. Look for a towel that occupies minimal space in your backpack yet a quality product that lasts.  Due to variation in climate travelers envy a quick-drying material that is washable and durable.

We recommend: ECOdept microfiber travel towel

The Ecodept microfiber travel towel is a great choice. Made of a soft, absorbent, quick drying, and feather-light material, the microfiber towels comes in different sizes.  When rolled, it will fit comfortably in your carryon without eating space. 

Note: To ensure they retain their absorbency, avoid using fabric softeners and detergents.

On a tight budget? Try the 4MONSTER packable microfiber towel

There will be a stage in your journey where these come in handy. Crossing the Zambezi to take a leap into the Devil’s Pool or just swimming in the ocean and don’t fancy leaving your valuables behind, a dry bag can come to the rescue.

They are great little things to stow away as they really don’t take up much space and offer plenty of use.

We Recommend: Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags

These dry bags feature double closure strip seals at the top to prevent water from coming in and the larger bags also have added protection with a roll top fastening. They are extremely sturdy, lightweight, tear resistant and best of all, it floats.

Recommended Travel Tech

Portable travel charger .

These have been a lifesaver for many travelers visiting Asia.  Not much is more irritating than getting a flat battery in a foreign land. Given that while traveling, you will often find yourself outdoors or in transit and away from power outlets, the chances are that at some point, your phone is going to run out of juice. Don’t underestimate how much Google mapping, communicating with loved ones that you’re safe, and of course taking millions of amazing pictures to show off to your friends stuck at home. These are all battery sapping behaviors, so a backup powerpack is borderline essential . 

Note: Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries that most airlines won’t allow to be checked I, so make sure you keep it in your carry on. Having been over the Atlantic ocean while smelling burning on a plane as one of these set fire in the hold, I can promise, it is for a reason. It is not a nice feeling!

We recommend: Anker PowerCore Lite 20000mAh Portable Charger

The Anker 20000Mah power bank offers great value. With two USB ports, Anker is super fast at charging and easy to use. Just make sure you remember to charge the charger, plugging your phone into it to see it too is dead is awful, trust me, I’ve been there.

On a tight budget? Try the ZMI PowerPack 10000mAh Fast Charging Portable Battery Pack

Lightweight but great travel camera

While phones are getting better at taking photos every day, for most serious photo-backpackers, a camera is an absolute essential travel accessory.  There is nothing more fulfilling than capturing your best travel moments, scenic landscapes, and iconic attractions. Given that Asian destinations are a dream for photographers, an excellent lightweight camera is a must have for backpackers. While DSRL seems to do a great job, they are heavy and may not be an excellent choice for the minimalist traveler or long term traveler traversing Asia due to portability.  

We recommend: Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera

The Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera is a great choice.  Apart from being reasonably priced, a6000 captures fantastic photos and record great videos at 1080/60p. Thanks to its easily accessible manual settings featuring the menu button, dual function dials, and function button beginners can easily customize the settings. It has an in-built Wi-Fi and is light to travel with. It features filters, epic low-light performance, and autofocus system to ensure the quality of your images is maintained. 

On a tight budget? Try the Nikon COOLPIX B500 digital camera

Pocket wifi

An international wifi hotspot is incredibly useful when it comes to long-term travel. A connection has become an essential ingredient of everyday life.  The most common challenge travelers’ face is slow speed, unstable and insecure WI-FI. Since most long-term travelers work online to sustain their nomadic lifestyle, stable and robust portable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. Portable Wi-Fi comes in handy when traveling across many countries as you need to keep in touch with your clients.

We recommend: GlocalMe 4G LTE International WiFi Hospot

If you plan on spending much time exploring Asia, then Glocalme mobile hotspot is your perfect match. It is super fast and can basically keep you connected in most countries, especially in Asia. Glocalme comes in three different packages depending on the number of countries you intend to visit. This wireless connectivity password protected to avoid data leakage and can connect to multiple devices.

On a tight budget? Try the ZTE Velocity 4G LTE Mobile Pocket WiFi Hotspot

Noise Cancelling Headphones 

Crying babies, snoring passengers or noisy neighborhoods, we’ve all had our peaceful journeys affected by one of these at some point, right? This can be frustrating, especially at night or during long flights, making it hard to sleep, read, or simply stay calm. Well, the good news is that noise canceling technology is fantastic and a great travel accessory.

We recommend: Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Bose quiet comfort 35 is an excellent choice that guarantees calm and peaceful travel experience.  It has unparalleled noise cancellation, long battery life, and superior sound quality and is Bluetooth enabled.

On a tight budget? Try the COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

Travel extension cord with USB

If you are an avid traveler, you’ve probably noticed that power outlets are not always located in the most convenient spots.  Whether you are in hotels, hostels, cafes, or airports, you may find that outlets are too few to charge all your gadgets. A power strip with multiple outlets and extension cord is your ideal travel companion. It gives you the freedom to charge multiple tech devices at once and close to your desired spot.

On a tight budget? Try the TESSAN 3 outlets travel power strip with surge protector

When it comes to Asia TESSAN portable power strip is the best.  For your convenience it futures 5 feet extension cord, three USB ports, two power plug slots, and fireproof material. If you want extra protection for your devices, you can bring a surge protector along.

On a tight budget? Try the UPWADE Outlet Travel Power Strip

Travel Health

Basic first aid kit.

One of those things you hope to never have to use, but you’ll bless the stars if you need it and you have it. Nothing too fancy, just have some plasters, anti-septic wipes, that kind f thing in the case that you get a nasty cut or even have to patch up some leech bites . . . tasty.

We recommend: 66 Pieces Soft Shell Travel First Aid Kit

This little pack is the perfect size for stuffing in your back pack and forgetting about it. For the tiny space inside, it packs a lot in there with almost everything you may need for any unwanted scrapes on the road. apart from tiger attacks. If you get attacked by a tiger, you’re probably better off heading straight to hospital rather than putting a plaster on it.

Portable UV sanitizing wand

OK, time for you to gross out for a minute. Have you ever considered the number of bugs on hotel sheets or even hostel mattresses? Trust me, it’s a lot more than you would probably think.

For the most part, they are harmless. But a lot of travelers don’t fancy sharing their bed with the microscopic hitchhikers. So, luckily some technology will help, the bug killing wand. 

We recommend: UV Care ultraviolet sanitizing wand

This portable device uses the power of concentrated UV Rays to kill off many of the germs and bacteria that get in its way. While it’s not going to get everything, it will undoubtedly be an improvement. It will even come in handy for your own sleeping bag if you are traveling long term.

Other recommend health essentials

I just wanted to give you a few extra suggestions that you may want to consider picking up from a local pharmacy before you travel. While they may take up a bit of space and you may never use them, trust me when I say searching for a pharmacy while suffering from crippling diarrhea in a foreign land just to save a bit of space is not fun.

• Insect repellent
• Diarrhea Medicine
• Hand sanitizer
• Rehydration sachets

Final product

So here it is, my top recommendation that I swore like a trooper when I didn’t have it and have never left it behind since. A plug. Yep, it’s that simple. It was when traveling through Africa that I had to do some laundry and none of the damn sinks had plugs. Now I don’t know if you have ever tried cleaning your underwear under running water, but it is bloody difficult. The great thing about a universal plug it is that you will never expect to use, it, you may not even do so, but when you need one, it is very hard to plug a sink with a sock. for the price vs. space vs. how useful it is should you need one, I highly recommend packing one.

We recommend: Universal Silicone Sink Plug

There’s not much I can say about it but look . . . It has a world map on it, that’s cool. ?

If you wanted to know more about my trip through Africa, I have a fun travel diary, How to clean your underwear in Africa , available on Amazon. You can also get a digital copy by joining my mailing list . Only updates, no spam 🙂

Final Words

Travel accessories make trips smooth and more enjoyable.  They save space, time, and money and offer traveler peace of mind. While the packing list may differ from each individual, the above-listed items are very beneficial and are worthy of investing in.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Ultimate 2-Week Packing List: How to pack for Asia

We know packing for a long trip can be overwhelming. It can be hard to know exactly what to pack especially when travelling to a new country. Whether you’re travelling for business, a family holiday, or a Solo 2-week trip, there are certain things that you should always pack for a trip to Asia.

If you’re taking a trip to Balis beautiful beaches, Island hopping in Thailand or touring around any of Asias stunning countries, Dive into this ultimate 2-week packing list for Asia to discover a detailed packing list including all your essential items, packing tips, and more travel info to make travelling in Asia a breeze.

Table of Contents

Essential travel items.

No matter the type of trip you’re going on, there are certain essential items that you should always pack. Here are some of the most important things to consider when packing for your trip to Asia.

Essentials for Everyone

It’s always a good idea to pack some medicine in case of emergencies or any bugs in Asia. 

Different medicines are required for different countries. Ensure to discuss with your GP first about what medicine you are ok to take. The most common medications you are recommended to bring to Asia include:

 Allergy Medication

Prescription medication

Charcoal Tablets

Stomach settler

Motion sickness

Antibacterial cream

First Aid Kit

Travel Adapter

Different countries have different power outlets, so you’ll want to make sure you have a travel adapter that is fit for the outlets in the countries you’ll be visiting. There are universal adapters available that work in multiple countries, which are an essential item for anyone planning to travel abroad. They are incredibly helpful devices that allows you to use your electronics in any country with ease.

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated while traveling while supporting the environment. It’s not possible to drink most tap water in Asia without risking getting sick. Rather than using a lot of plastic drink bottles on your trip consider using a reusable bottle that you can fill up at restaurants and from your accommodation.

Copy of Passport 

Keep a copy of your passport with you at all times. It’s a good idea to keep a physical copy as well as an electronic copy on your phone or another device. 

Reef Friendly Sunscreen

If you’re heading to the beach or are going to be snorkelling in any area with coral reefs, make sure to bring reef-friendly sunscreen. Reef-friendly sunscreen does not contain any of the ingredients that usual sunscreens dow which harm the well-being of the reef.

Insect repellent with Deet

With the lush ecosystems and waterways in Asia, Mosquitoes can be a problem in many areas. Bring mosquito spray with Deet to help protect yourself from bites.

Earbuds, Ear Plugs, Eye Mask

These items are essential for long flights or noisy hotel rooms. They’ll help you get some much-needed rest needed to keep your energies high on this trip

Quick Dry Towel

A quick-drying towel is helpful for anyone heading to the beaches or any water-related activity in Asia. They’re lightweight and easy to pack and make your life easier travelling with a dry towel. A beach towel is also very handy for lounging and relaxing on the Beach or taking a boat trip.

Travel cards

Having multiple travel cards can be a life saver while travelling. Ensure to keep them in separate locations with one in your bag as well as your wallet. A great backup in case your wallet happens to go missing.

Packing essentials for Women

When Creating a Travel wardrobe Women may have specific clothing and accessories that they need. Here are some of our best tips for packing for a two-week trip to Asia:

If you plan on visiting the beach or taking a dip in the hotel pool, be sure to pack your bathing suit. It’s a good idea to pack at least two swimsuits so that you always have a dry one to wear. 

Packing shoes is a major reason why your bag can be too over-filled or heavy. It is important to only bring comfortable shoes that can be used for multiple occasions such as runners for treks and hikes or some sandals for a beach trip. High heels are not necessary for most places in Asia but can always make a good addition to an outfit if you have room.

In some cultures, it is more appropriate to wear long pants, particularly when visiting religious sites. Pack a few pairs of lightweight, breathable pants that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Similarly, a long skirt is a versatile item that can be worn to religious sites or dressed up for a nice dinner. Look for a lightweight, flowy skirt that won’t take up too much space in your luggage.

Light singlets and tops

It can get quite hot and humid in Asia, so be sure to pack some lightweight, breathable tops that will keep you cool. Look for tops in neutral colors that can be mixed and matched with different bottoms. Don’t forget a nice dressy top for those special occasions. A long sleeve top is also great for layering in cold areas.

Comfortable shorts

Shorts are another versatile item that can be dressed up or down. Look for a comfortable, lightweight pair that won’t take up too much space in your luggage.

Comfortable bras and underwear 

When traveling, comfort is key. Be sure to pack comfortable bras and underwear that won’t be too tight and rub.

Mineral powder and Tinted Moisturiser 

Heavy makeup is not practical when travelling, you can keep it simple with your favourite powder and brush or even a tinted moisturiser with sunscreen. It is a simple one-step process that makes you feel presentable on the go and doesn’t feel sticky in the humid weather. BB cream is also a great option.

Menstrual cup / Tampons 

Finding Tampons in Southeast Asia can be difficult at times, as they are not very popular. Pads can be purchased in most stores for a hefty price. Bringing a reusable menstrual cup can be a great alternative and save you room depending on your preference. Do come prepared for any situation to save you the hassle.

Perfume/Deodorant 

Smelling good is always nice whilst travelling, carrying around spray deodorant and bulky perfume can get heavy and inconvenient for flying. switching to a roll-on deodorant and a travel-size perfume will save you a lot of space and weight when travelling.

There is nothing worse than overpacking and having to lug all of your belongings around. Be mindful of the weight and amount of your items to avoid a workout every time you’re moving your bag.

Remember to pack clothing that is appropriate for the activities and locations you plan to visit, while still keeping in mind cultural dress codes. Be sure to choose items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, which will help you pack light and save space in your luggage.

Packing essentials for Men

Casual Swimwear

Whether you’re headed to the beach or just relaxing poolside, a good pair of swim trunks is a must-have for any man’s packing list. Look for a pair that is comfortable, quick-drying, and versatile enough to wear both in and out of the water.

Toiletry Bag

Keep it compact: Toiletries can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to bring a toiletry bag on your journey. Very convenient for keeping your items close together and out of the way. Look for a bag with multiple compartments and pockets to help you organize your items efficiently.

Essential toiletries

There are always the essential toiletries that we all know such as toothbrush and deodorant, but a lot of Toiletries are a personal preference. Some items that every man should consider bringing on a trip include:

Razor and shaving cream

Hair product

Nail clippers

Comb or brush

Bum bag / Fanny pack

Comfort, convenience, and security are what a bum bag provides.

When you just have one too many items in your pockets but you don’t want to carry a backpack around all day, the bum bag is the perfect option. Highly convenient to place all your personal items within reach and secure while having your hands free

Formal Attire

If you’re planning to attend a nice dinner or a business meeting during your trip, it’s important to pack some formal attire. A dress shirt, trousers, and dress shoes are essential items for any man’s packing list.

Packing clothes

When packing clothes for a two-week trip to Asia, it is important to take a few factors into consideration. Mainly the weather, cultural considerations, comfort, and ability to be easily mixed and matched.

Here are some tips on how to pack your clothes for a two-week trip to Asia:

How many clothes to pack 

Breathedreamgo

The transformational travel guide

Travel Essentials Packing List for Asia

Table of Contents

Travel Essentials Packing List for Asia: What you need and what you don’t

Guest post by Deborah Provenzale.

YOU’RE EXCITED FOR your upcoming trip – you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and/or South Asia! You’ve made your plans, booked your flights, and now it’s time to pack. The only problem is, how do you know what should go on your international travel packing list? Packing for travel in Asia, especially Southeast Asia, and South Asia including India, is different than other regions due to the combination of heat, humidity, traditional cultures, and challenging travel conditions.

After living and traveling in Asia for eight years, I’ve taken my personal experience to put together the essential travel packing list for your trip. I’ll share with you the backpacking must haves, including luggage, shoes, clothing, and gear, as well as the things you can either buy on the road or simply leave at home. I want to recommend good and useful products, and also warn against things you don’t need and won’t use.

Note on the affiliate items in this post: all items were hand chosen by Deborah or by me, Mariellen, and they have our personal stamp of approval. For India, specifically, check out my post Packing for travel in India .

What to Pack for Thailand and backpacking Asia: Your travel packing checklist

Travel backpacks and luggage.

Essential luggage for backpacking Asia includes a travel backpack. The first item on your backpacking essentials list should, of course, be a good travel backpack. I bought mine several years ago at REI in the USA, so it’s no longer available, but here are some things to consider and what I like about mine.

– Opens in the front instead of the top: This makes it easier to pack it like a suitcase and quickly find what you’re looking for. I like that mine also has interior mesh pockets where I often put my socks, underwear, and all the cables, chargers, etc. for my electronics. It even has straps on the inside like a regular suitcase so I can strap everything down once I’ve finished packing.

– Adjustable torso: It’s important that your backpack fits you really well, especially if you’re going to be using it for a long duration while backpacking Asia. The torso can be adjusted to your height, and there are several other points on the backpack that are adjustable, including the hip belt and top straps.

– Capacity: The backpack I have is 80L, which holds a lot. Nowadays, the range seems to be more around 40-60L to comply with airline regulations for size and weight allowances for carry-ons. I have had no problems carrying mine on while traveling all over Asia, but you definitely need to be aware of your backpack’s dimensions and how much weight you pack. My pack can definitely get heavy, but thanks to its great design, the weight is distributed onto the hips, so it’s super comfortable to carry and doesn’t add any stress to my back or shoulders – very important when backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia

– Removable day pack: One thing I love about my travel backpack is that there is a smaller day pack in the front pocket that’s removable. The day pack has mesh side pockets for water bottles, it has two zippered compartments – a smaller front one for pens, keys, your sunscreen, and other smaller items, and a spacious main compartment with an elastic pouch for your laptop and space for notebooks, a jacket, or whatever else you want to carry with you.

– Lockable zippers: When shopping for a good travel backpack, make sure you find one that has zippers that can be locked together. On the one I have, the zippers for the main and top compartments have rings like on a suitcase that fit together so a lock can go through. Check out this post for more anti-theft backpacks . 

– Rain cover: When you’re backpacking Asia, especially during monsoon season, it’s highly likely that you’ll have some rainy days. To protect your clothes and items inside your backpack, you’ll need a good rain cover. One thing I like about mine is that the rain cover doubles as a protective bag for times when I need to check my bag for a flight. It keeps all the straps together and secure and protects from dirt and rough baggage handling.

There are many great backpacks for female travelers on the market today, so use these tips to find the right one for you. These are two of the best (note they come in different sizes):

Osprey Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack  

Eagle Creek 65L Women’s Travel Backpack  

Carry-on suitcase

Perhaps you want the experience of traveling Southeast Asia or South Asia but you don’t want to carry a backpack. Then another option is to get an international carry-on suitcase. The brand I like is TravelPro. They have the Maxlight 5 line of suitcases that are the lightest I’ve seen on the market so far. They have a great warranty and are very good quality.

Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for a carry-on suitcase.

– Lightweight: Weight is always important when flying, but it’s more so with a carry-on. In Asia, there are many budget airlines, and their restrictions are quite strict. In my experience, most airlines will allow you to carry on a maximum of 7 kg (a little over 15 lbs) at no extra charge, but you have to pay extra if you want to increase it to 10 kg (22 lbs). More than that and you’ll have to pay to check your bag. So instead of wasting precious weight on the suitcase itself, opt for the lightest one you can find.

– 360-degree spinner wheels: This will make your life so much easier when navigating through crowds and maneuvering along uneven roads and sidewalks, all of which Asia has a lot of. Just make sure to get a suitcase with a good warranty and high-quality wheels as these are often the first items to break or get damaged while traveling.

– Fits international carry-on standards: Not all carry-on suitcases are alike. For domestic travel in the USA, the allowable dimensions are actually a bit bigger than those allowed for international travel. So check that your carry-on accommodates international dimension regulations. You can check the regulations on any airline’s website to be sure, and as a tip, when measuring your suitcase, make sure to include the wheels and handles. Travelpro has a specific international carry-on to save you the worries. Here are a couple we recommend:

TravelPro Maxlight 5 

Swissgear Sion Spinner 21” Carryon

Compressible packing cubes

Packing cubes are all the rage now, and for good reason. They really are travel essentials. Not only do they keep your backpack or suitcase organized so items are easy to find, but they also come in different sizes so you have just the space you need for everything from undergarments to shirts, pants, and even jackets.

The ones I use are the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes which come in a set of three – small, medium, and large, which are the perfect sizes to put my socks in one, underwear in the other, and shirts and leggings in the largest one.

The reason I love these cubes is because once I’ve filled them up, then there’s a second zipper that compresses the cube to save on packing space. They’re made of a strong, water- and stain-resistant fabric that is woven in a box pattern to prevent tearing. I’ve been using mine for two years, and they still look brand new. Plus, they come in a variety of great colours. Eagle Creek also makes great compression packing cubes.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes  

Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set 

Luggage locks and cables

When backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia, you MUST be diligent in keeping your bags locked and your belongings secure. Due to the sheer volume of people, it’s a haven for pick-pocketing and theft, and all it takes is for you to look away for even a moment to then find that your bags have disappeared.

The best way to protect yourself is to lock the zippers on all of your luggage, even any small backpacks and bags you’re hand-carrying. In addition, when you can’t be near your luggage to keep an eye on it, lock your luggage all together with a steel luggage cable. I like the 4-foot cables because they’re long enough to thread through all the luggage handles and then wrap around something solid like the leg of a bus seat or any unbreakable poles or handrails.

I like these particular cables because they’re thick braided cable that is cut-proof, covered by a vinyl coating to protect against rusting and friction. It’s a set of two 4-foot cables, which is great because I always like to have a couple cables in case I need the extra length. The other great thing is that they’re light-weight and compact, so you won’t even notice that you’re carrying them. Just note that they don’t come with the locks, so you’ll need to buy those separately, and make sure you get TSA-approved locks.

Cable luggage lock and cables

Safety Cable

Good travel shoes are backpacking must haves

When you’re planning your packing list for Asia, one of the most important things is your shoes. However, you need to find a balance between having shoes that coordinate with any outfit and are appropriate for any function and not going overboard with too many shoes. All you really need are three essential pairs: light hikers, flip flops, and walking sandals.

One note is that it’s a good idea to have a pair of closed-toe shoes. The streets in Asia can be quite dusty and dirty, and there are times you might want to go trekking in places with grass or brush. So be sure to have one pair of shoes that covers your toes.

Flip flops Flip flops are a must for any Asia backpacker’s travel packing list and Reef is the best brand. Not only are the streets dirty, but you won’t want to be going barefoot in any public areas including swimming pools, beaches, and even showers at spas and hostels. It’s not that these places are totally disgusting and never cleaned, but just think about all the people going in and out coupled with the humid environment. It’s a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus like athlete’s foot.

Reef Stargazer flip-flops 

One thing to note is that when you’re deciding what things to pack for Thailand and other Asian countries, keep in mind that many hotels and guest houses will ask you to remove your shoes before entering the building. It’s also common in many other Asian countries like India, China, Japan, Malaysia and Indonesia. Often, they will provide you with some indoor slippers, but not always. So for these cases, it’s also a good idea to have a pair of flip flops with you that you can wear indoors so you don’t have to go barefoot.

Thailand rope sandals One thing you can leave OFF your Thailand packing list and instead, put on your Thailand shopping list, is rope sandals. These amazingly comfortable sandals are not only super cute and stylish, but they’re hand-crafted in Thailand. I bought a pair in Chiang Mai while backpacking Thailand a few years ago, and I paid only around $10 USD for them. I loved them so much that I took them with me everywhere I went while backpacking Asia. If you are backpacking Southeast Asia or Thailand, get yourself a pair. You’ll love them.

READ: The best Thai food in Thailand.

Clothing packing list for Asia

As far as clothing goes, the list is short and simple because Asia is a great place to find comfortable, stylish, and inexpensive clothing. So when you’re making your backpacking essentials list, you can save the space and weight by going light on the clothes. There are really only a few essential items you need, and the rest you can buy as you go.

Long skirt and pants This is pretty much the foundational item on every solo female traveler’s packing list. Long skirts can be paired with anything, can be worn in any circumstance like visiting temples where bare legs above the shins are not allowed, are classy and comfortable, and they keep you cool in the Southeast Asia and South Asia heat and humidity. You can’t really go wrong with any type of long skirt you like. Just make sure it’s a light-weight and breathable material as some cotton skirts can be heavy for packing and take a long time to dry when wet.

It’s also a good idea to pack very light-weight long pants in a neutral colour – you can use them for hiking, trekking, or wildlife tourism and safaris.

Loose, modest shirts

Asian countries tend to be more modest than in the USA, Canada, and Europe. So it’s important to respect the cultures and traditions by dressing modestly. As a solo female traveler, it’s also in the best interest of your safety to not draw unwanted attention to yourself.

Hiking shirt  

Columbia long-sleeve travel shirt 

When I’m creating my international travel packing list, my go-to clothing staples include long, loose t-shirts, shirts and tunics because I know that they will go with whatever skirt or pants I choose to wear. They also layer well, are comfortable, and they’re appropriate for temples and other sacred places where bare shoulders are prohibited. Be aware that t-shirt material – jersey cotton – is very hot and clingy in humidity and never dries when you hand wash! It’s much better to pack breathable fabrics like light, woven cotton and wicking microfibres.

Biker shorts This is one of the travel essentials that only travelers who are experienced in backpacking Asia know about. “Why biker shorts?” you’re probably asking. Because after you’ve been walking all day in the heat and humidity of Southeast Asia and South Asia in a skirt or dress, you’ll start to feel some chafing where your thighs have been rubbing together. Do this day after day, and you’ll be in some serious pain.

Biker shorts – the sporty, moisture-wicking ones, not cotton – protect your thighs from the chafing. Wear them under any skirt or dress, and you’ll have the added benefit that if an unexpected gust of wind blows your hem up, you won’t have your panties on full display. They’re great for times when you’re actually riding a bike or scooter, too. Biker shorts are light-weight and form-fitting, so no one will even notice that you’re wearing them under your skirt or dress.

You can also try bamboo capri leggings, which are cooler than cotton, and can be paired with long tunics (called kurtahs in India).

Microfibre underwear

If you haven’t noticed a pattern yet, any packing list for Asia must account for the heat and humidity. Your underwear are no different. Cotton panties are not advisable because they soak up the sweat and then stay damp all day long, which can put you at risk for yeast infections. Microfibre underwear and bras, on the other hand, wick away moisture and dry quickly. They are also easier to wash as they don’t hold onto bacteria and odours like cotton underwear do, and they can be dry within an hour or two. ExOfficio specializes in travel clothes that wick away sweat and moisture.

ExOfficio bikini underwear 

Comfortable bras Much like your panties, bras can get sweaty and smelly, too, and depending on how much walking you’re doing, they can start to chafe around your bra line. After living in Taiwan and traveling throughout Asia for eight years, I tried many different options, but there is only one that has become my tried-and-true solution.

ExOfficio has some great breathable, seamless, and wireless bras and camisoles. The microfibre material wicks away moisture so you don’t get those sweaty friction points that you get with regular underwire bras. I like these, too, because they can layer as a shirt or even be worn by themselves. You just have to remember to cover up your shoulders if you go to any temples or shrines.

ExOfficio bra 

ExOfficio camisole 

Hat The sun can get pretty intense in Asia, so it’s a good idea to have some kind of cap or hat as sunscreen alone might not protect you all day long if you forget to reapply it. It’s best to get a wide-brimmed hat, and preferably one that can be rolled for easy packing without losing its shape.

Rain jacket Although it’s easy to find disposable plastic raincoats in any convenience store in Asia, it’s not a very earth-friendly option. Instead, opt for a light-weight, breathable wind-breaker jacket that’s waterproof. I love my Marmot rain jacket. It’s a nice colour, it packs down inside its own pocket for easy carrying, and it’s great for cooler evenings when a light jacket is needed.

Marmot lightweight rain jacket 

Items you can buy in Southeast Asia and South Asia

Sarong One of the travel essentials when backpacking Asia is a sarong. Sarongs are versatile and can be used for many purposes. They can be worn as a skirt, a scarf, a shawl, and a dress, and they can be used as a sheet or light blanket for those cold flights and bus rides, or when you don’t want to sleep directly on the sheets on a bed. Don’t worry about finding a sarong before your trip, though. You can find these throughout Asia, especially in places like India and Thailand, and they’re super inexpensive and come in a huge variety of colours and patterns.

Scarves If you want something lighter to keep your neck warm or just want a cute accessory to go with your outfit, you will also find an abundance of beautiful scarves during your travels in Asia. Thailand is one of my favourite places to shop for amazing scarves at unbeatable prices, and the variety in India is mind-boggling.

Tunic or kurtah Kurtah means shirt in Hindi, but refers to a long tunic that is often worn with flowing pants and a long scarf – together, these three pieces are called a “suit,” “salwar kameez,” or “Punjabi suit.” If you need to be ultra-traditional, or if you’re going to a dressy occasion, wear all three together. Otherwise, you can just wear the tunic with jeans, leggings, or a skirt.

Read my post What to wear when travelling in India for more ideas.

Thai Elephant pants Thailand wins again with its huge assortment of elephant pants. Don’t know what those are? Just a quick Google image search will show you the fun, colourful, and comfortable array of Thai elephant pants. Want some comfy lounge pants? Need some new pyjama bottoms? Just want a comfortable, light-weight pair of pants to go sight-seeing in or to do yoga? I give you elephant pants. I bought so many of these on my visits to Thailand because they’re so comfortable and inexpensive. You can get these in India, Bali, and throughout Asia, where they are popular with backpackers. 

And speaking of the famous Indonesian island, here’s a great list of the best places to stay in Bali for your trip planning.

Jewelry In general, I don’t make it a habit of traveling with a lot of jewelry, but especially when backpacking Southeast Asia and South Asia, you don’t need to pack much jewelry because you can find it everywhere you go for really great prices. Thailand is a great place to buy silver, just make sure you’re getting the real stuff, Indonesia has a lot of beautiful wood and bead jewelry, you can find nice jade in Taiwan, Japan abounds with hand-painted accessories, and the bling in India is astounding. Every country in Asia seems to be known for its own unique type of jewelry, so leave the stuff you already have at home, and treat yourself to some new bling.

Read my post What to buy in India? For more ideas.

Travel toiletries list.

Toiletries is another section on the travel packing checklist that you can keep relatively short. You can buy most skin care, hair care, and cosmetic items wherever you go in Asia, and you’ll have no problem finding high-quality products, as well as products in travel sizes. There are still a few items, however, that I’d recommend packing.

Silicone travel bottles Instead of getting the cheap plastic bottles that end up leaking, breaking, and getting thrown in the landfill, try these environmentally-friendly leak-proof silicon bottles. This kit comes with four bottles for shampoo, conditioner, lotion, or whatever else you want to use them for, two toothbrush covers, and three small containers for creams, scrubs, or even pills all in a clear carrying case.

Silicone travel bottles

Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant Although you can easily find these products while traveling, I don’t know about you, but I’m picky about my hair care products and deodorant. So to avoid any bad hair days or smelling a bit riper than you would like, I recommend putting your favourite products on your backpacking essentials list. This is especially true if you are careful about what deodorant you buy.

Contact lenses & solution Being a contact wearer myself, and having really sensitive eyes, I always had a hard time finding contact solution when I was backpacking Asia. So before I go on any trip, I always make sure to stock up on travel size bottles of my preferred contact solution and more than enough contacts for each eye so I know I’m covered in case I lose or tear a lens.

One side note, however, is that in Taiwan, you can buy boxes of contacts really inexpensively without a prescription, and they had my contact solution, too. So if you’re traveling in Taiwan, you’ll be fine. I’m not sure if that’s the case in other Southeast Asian or South Asia countries, though, so it’s best to not risk it and just go prepared.

Mineral powder and tinted moisturizer Heavy make-up is not fashionable or practical when on the road, so you can get away with keeping it simple. When traveling, the only product that I could never live without was mineral powder. I had a particular kind that I liked, it was a simple, one-step process to make myself feel presentable, and it didn’t feel heavy or sticky with the heat and humidity. So if you’re a make-up wearer and can survive without all your usual products, just carrying some mineral powder and a kabuki brush will save you a lot of space and weight in your bag.

Another option is tinted moisturizer with sunscreen, also known as BB (beauty balm) cream. These can be bought easily in western countries – some great options include those by Aveda and Marcelle – and also throughout Southeast Asia. Tinted moisturizer, or mineral powder, and tinted lip balm make a great on-the-go travel make-up duo. You don’t really need anything else.

Aveda tinted moisturizer , note it comes in various shades, this is just one of them 

Marcelle BB cream  

Menstrual cup

Let’s face it, ladies, our cycles don’t go on vacation just because we do, but who wants to pack a big enough supply of pads or tampons to last the whole trip? Not to mention, pads and tampons create a lot of waste. On one hand, you won’t have a difficult time finding pads. Tampons are not as common in Asia, but I used to buy them in Taiwan and did see them in other countries. However, there’s another option so you can leave these unsustainable products off your travel toiletries list.

I’ll be honest, I’m a late adopter of the menstrual cup. I was grossed out by the idea, and I wasn’t sure how they worked. However, after finally having the courage to give it a try, I became a fan. I’m still not an expert, but I do know that it’s important to find one that fits properly and is comfortable. One that I like is the Pixie Cup. There are various sizes, but I like that the stem is small and round. The first cup I tried bothered me because of the rigid stem. I also like that for every cup you buy, the company gives one to a woman or girl in a country where having her period would mean staying in a hut and missing work or school. Other well-regarded makers include Diva.

As a tip, don’t waste your money on the special cleansing soaps that are promoted for menstrual cups. You could use them when you’re at home, but it’s not worth carrying the extra weight when traveling. At the end of your cycle, simply boil the menstrual cup in water, dry it carefully, or let it air dry in a clean environment, then put it in a pouch or small container to keep it clean until next time.

Pixie Cup  

Diva Cup 

Backpacking gear list

No international travel packing list is complete without the essential gear. From converters to drinking bottles that keep your tummy safe, these are the backpacking must haves.

Converter and surge protector

When traveling internationally, you definitely need a converter and I highly recommend a surge protector. After years of backpacking Asia, I’ve tried several different converters. Many hotels and hostels in Asia are now equipped with outlets that have the converters built-in. So all you need to do is plug your appliances or devices into the correct socket and they work great. However, it’s always a good idea to use your own converter and surge protector as you never know how stable their electrical systems are, and you wouldn’t want to risk frying your laptop, phone, or other devices.

Electrical converter  

A Belkin travel surge protector is a must-have item for charging laptops and smart phones. 

Portable Drinking Straw and Cutlery Set A lot of restaurants now are going away from plastic straws, thankfully, but when I was backpacking Southeast Asia, I still encountered many situations where I was served drinks with plastic straws. So to avoid these situations and to do our parts to reduce plastic waste, it’s easy to just carry your own reusable drinking straw.

I like this stainless steel telescoping straw because it’s compact, comes in its own small carrying case that fits on your key ring, and comes in a variety of fun colours. So no more forgetting your portable straw or leaving it behind because it’s too big and inconvenient. You can always have this one on you, and it even has its own telescoping cleaning brush when you’re finished.

It’s also a good idea to carry your own cutlery set to avoid having to use plastic utensils, which are still widely used in Asia. Bamboo is great because it is naturally anti-bacterial and is strong, so it won’t get moldy or mildew and will hold up to daily use over a long period of time.

Reusable straw  

Bamboo utensil set  

Laundry bags When going through your travel packing list, don’t forget laundry bags. You’ll undoubtedly be doing laundry when you’re on the road, and these bags can greatly extend the lives of your delicates. Personally, I like a mesh laundry bag.

Laundry detergent strips Instead of carrying more liquid with you and wasting valuable space and weight, use laundry detergent strips. You can get a package for 48 loads, and they’re light-weight and lie flat in your luggage. They can be used in any kind of washing machine, whether front load, top load, or high-efficiency, and they’re safe to use for hand-washing in the sink because they’re made of bio-based products.

Laundry detergent strips 

Backpacking essentials list

Lastly, when putting together your international travel packing list, there are some absolute essentials you must not forget to pack.

Prescriptions Although medical care is quite good in many parts of Asia, and pharmacies are well-stocked, you might be hard-pressed to find a prescription medication you need. So it’s better to stock up on enough to get you through your trip, plus a little extra, just in case, so you don’t have to stress about your health while traveling.

Kleenex/tissue packets & hand sanitizer Tissue packets and hand sanitizer are the “never leave home without it” items you must carry with you at all times when traveling Asia. I can’t even count how many times I needed to use a restroom while backpacking Asia only to find that there was no toilet paper and no soap to wash my hands. So without a doubt, do not forget to take these travel essentials with you wherever you go.

Reusable water bottle and filtered water bottle

Instead of wasting money on plastic bottles, and contributing to the plastic pollution problem, I recommend getting a reusable bottle. One that I like is a silicone collapsible water bottle. It’s leak-proof, and it can expand to 18 oz. You can put hot or cold beverages in it, and because it’s collapsible, you can stuff it into smaller spaces like your purse or backpack.

You can also get filtered water bottles like Lifestraw Go, Grayl, and Water-to-go, and you never have to worry about your water source, or contributing to plastic pollution, again.

Read my Responsible Travel Products post for more ideas.

Lifestraw Go filtered water bottle  

Grayl filtered water bottle 

Water-to-go filtered water bottle 

Reef-friendly sunscreen It’s sad to know that while we’ve been diligent in protecting our skin from sunburns and ageing, we’ve also been contributing to coral reef depletion. However, the good news is that we now have more options, and they include reef-safe sunscreens. So when you’re deciding what to pack for Thailand and other destinations in Asia with great beaches, there are tons of brands and products to choose from. Just find the one that fits your required SPF, and if it’s too big to carry on in your backpack, squeeze it into one of your silicone travel bottles so you can hit the beach guilt-free.

Sun Bum reef safe sunscreen  

Mosquito spray with Deet Unfortunately, malaria and dengue are real risks in a lot of countries in Asia. While you can definitely find mosquito repellants in these countries, it’s not always guaranteed that they contain Deet, which is the essential ingredient for repelling biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Travel-size bottles of mosquito sprays and creams can be found in the travel products section of most stores, so grab a bottle before you head out on your trip.

Thief-proof RFID purse and wallet

We talked about cut-proof safety for your luggage, but what about for your wallet? As I mentioned, when backpacking Asia, you really do need to watch out for pick-pockets and purse snatchers. That’s why I love this Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag that I bought three years ago and have been traveling with ever since. The purse itself is cut-proof, along with the strap that can be worn across your body. It has RFID-blocking pockets for your passport and credit cards, and it has clips on the zippers as an added measure so thieves can’t easily get into your purse. The handle also has a clip so you can wrap it around a table or chair leg. This purse is so handy and is one of the backpacking must haves.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag  

Pacsafe Anti-Theft shoulder bag  

Pacsafe RFID safe wallet 

Ear buds, ear plugs & eye mask Whether you’re trying to catch a few winks on a bus or plane, you’re staying in a hostel dorm room, or you’re just a light sleeper in general, like I am, you’re going to want to pack ear plugs, an eye mask, and your headphones or ear buds. Asia is a noisy continent in general, and sometimes it can be hard to escape it. So it’s nice to be able to just plug in to some music to drown out the din, or to unplug and get some shut-eye without background noises disturbing you.

Quick-dry travel towel When you’re backpacking Asia, there’s never a guarantee that you’ll have a towel at every place you stay. If you’re staying in hostels, you’ll definitely need your own towel. However, there’s nothing worse than having to put a damp towel inside your backpack or suitcase. So make sure you pack a quick-drying travel towel. These towels are light-weight, compact, and the micro-fibre material dries quickly and is lint-free.

Quick-dry towels  

So there you have it, your complete travel essentials packing list for Asia. By following this list, you will ensure that you have just the items you need for a safe and comfortable trip without the added bulk of things you don’t need or that you can pick up along the way. Share your favourite backpacking must haves in the comments, and happy traveling!

For more reading: click here to find out about the best family holiday destinations in Asia . 

Deborah Provenzale is a solo female expat, world traveler, writer, and life coach. Having lived in Taiwan for eight years, she utilized her background in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship to build an online business so she could be location independent. Now Deborah teaches other women how to escape the rat race so they, too, can travel, have more adventures, and have the freedom to pursue their dreams. Find out how on her site at DeborahProvenzale.com.

PIN it on Pinterest

If you enjoyed this post, you can….

Sign up to The Travel Newsletter in the sidebar and follow Breathedreamgo on all social media platforms including Instagram, TripAdvisor, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. Thank you!

Packing for travel in India

How I (finally) learned to travel light …

What to wear when travelling in India

About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

No related photos.

Sign up for my newsletter and get inspiration to live your travel dreams

Privacy Overview

All Destinations , Asia , Australasia , Bali , Eco Travel , Packing Lists , Plan Your Trip

Travelling with carry on luggage only in asia: a how-to guide.

One of my best sustainable travel tips is to pack less, because less items means reduced fuel emissions on transport. It also means favouring solid, package-free toiletries over weighty bottles. And guess what? Sustainable travel is often also cheap travel, and travelling in this way could save you a ton of money.

I hate spending money on unnecessary things, and to be honest, 20kg of luggage for 6 weeks in Asia seemed unnecessary to me – especially given the fact that I’d have to pay for extra baggage on four separate flights. I dislike flying at the best of times, without having to pay however much AirAsia wants to charge for extra baggage. So I decided to try my luck travelling with carry on luggage only in Asia.

I left most of my belongings in my car, bought a carry on size backpack from Darwin, and put all I needed for those six weeks in this bag.

People told me it wasn’t possible. They said it couldn’t be done. I let out a big evil laugh and said challenge… accepted.

Travelling with Carry On Luggage Only: The Perfect Carry On Bag

Of course, you can’t take any old bag and put six weeks of your life in there. If you’re flying with hand luggage only, it has got to be a strategic carry on bag that just fits into the size rack – the size differs from country to country but Skyscanner has a great guide about different airlines’ requirements . In Europe, North America or Australasia, you can probably get away with a hand luggage sized rolling suitcase. In Asia, however – with lots of uneven roads and tracks – a backpack is the way to go.

If you’re going to be lugging it through the streets of Bangkok or around Malaysian island getaways for six weeks, you’ll most likely want it to be a backpack with a chest strap and waist strap. It’s got to be sturdy and zip up rather than buckle. And its great if it has a few separate compartments to keep your belongings organised.

It’s also got to not naturally make your luggage heavier, so a soft material is desirable.

How about a bag like this (drumroll)…

What NOT to take in your carry on bag

There are certain things you can’t take in a carry on – and you’ll have to find a way around these if you’re travelling with carry on only. Liquids are the main one that you’ll normally be taking with you on your jollys that are prohibited in carry on bags. My answer? Solid everything. Lush sells completely vegan products with natural ingredients and zero packaging. This means that you’re not only dodging extra baggage fees, but you’re using great products that are saving the world too. Yay!

You can get most Lush toiletries in solid form. I use the shampoo and soap frequently and absolutely rave about them. I stopped using conditioner one time when I ran out of money, and now see it as an unnecessary luxury (unless I’ve just finished a long road trip. THEN it’s a necessity, trust me). Lush also sell solid toothpaste which they call toothy tabs – these are great, albeit a little expensive, so unfortunately they too fall into the unnecessary luxury category for me – and solid deodorant. I used to love the solid deodorant, and still have fond memories of it – however after a certain amount of time it does seem to stop working. This is partially a good thing – it shows how long the bars last for – but also can be a bit frustrating. Here’s a post I wrote about other green travel products and gear , most of which fit inside a carry on.

If you don’t want to use Lush or another brand’s solid toiletries, you can buy cheap toiletries in most places in Asia. It’s a great idea to get some travel sized bottles for when you first get out there and then stock up once you reach a pharmacy.

I’m a book-a-holic, but if I only had 10kg of luggage to play with, I wouldn’t use 8 of that on books (actually, I probably would, but it’s not wise). Instead, purchase a kindle. These e-readers are the best on the market – they sync with your Amazon account where you can easily download ebooks, often at budget prices. A kindle is one of those nifty items that will save you money as you travel.

You can’t take various blades into carry on with you – in the UK, generally blades under 6cm are ok, with blades longer not allowed. Check the full restrictions on the GOV UK website here . It may vary from country to country, so to be sure, check the restrictions for every country you are flying through and make sure any knives/ scissors you are carrying are ok.

Carry on packing tips – what goes in?

Here’s a run down of everything I took to Asia, travelling with carry on luggage only:

• 1 x pair of hippy pants
• 1 x pair of jogging trousers
• 1 x pair of sport shorts
• 1 x pair of denim shorts

• 1 x playsuit
• 5 x t shirts
• 1 x rain mac

• 2 x bikinis
• 7 x knickers
• 1 x sports bra
• 1 x pair of trainers
• 1 x pair of flip flops

I washed my clothes fairly frequently (sometimes in the shower, but we won’t go too much into that…), and I really didn’t feel the need for more clothes. MINAMILISM IS COOL KIDS.

Toiletries, Make Up and Medical Supplies

• Eyebrow pencil
• Lush shampoo bar
• Body soap bar
• Lush solid deodorant
• Small tube toothpaste

• Lush face wash
• Pack of tissues
• Paracetamol
• Hand Sanitizer
• Pack of Wipes
• Small mosquito repellent
• Small suncream (I bought more of both when I was in Asia)

Writing Supplies and Electronics

• 2 x diary (I write a lot)
• Ideas notepad (ditto)
• MacBook Air and charger
• Amazingly broken, yet amazingly still working $90 Telstra phone (the one all travel bloggers are queueing out the door to purchase – you heard it here first) and charger.
• Fujifilm X-A3 mirrorless camera
• GoPro Hero 5 (joking, I dropped it in the sea on the Ningaloo Reef , but I so would have taken it had it if I hadn’t done that)

Handy Travel Items

• A water bottle – I really recommend the water to go bottle , which can filter any water apart from saltwater!
• Collapsible tupperware – perfect to put cut up fruit and veg or leftovers in.
• Passport (pretty essential)
• Plastic wallet with flight confirmations, insurance details and a couple of maps

Tips for travelling with carry on only in Asia (or anywhere else!):

If you’re a little bit over the weight limit, put on all your clothes . Well, maybe not all of them, but try your hardest. For one of my flights, I wore running leggings, hippy pants, three t shirts, a shirt, a hoodie, three pairs of socks, trainers and had my sarong draped around me. I was in Bali’s Denpasar airport and yes, I was BOILING. But it worked – fantastic tip for travelling with hand luggage only, right? #hearditherefirst

Try to have specific places to put things . When putting a lot of stuff in a small bag, doing this is a lifesaver – if you know exactly where everything should be, it’s a lot less likely you’ll lose stuff.

Remember toiletries can always be bought – they’re a big no no on flights, unless they’re under 100 ml, but you can nearly always pick them up when you reach your destination

Take a canvas bag  when you’re travelling with hand luggage only to use as a second bag when you’re travelling around the country – this works really well to keep every day items together and means you don’t have to lug around your hand luggage backpack every day.

Some travellers swear by packing cubes  – using these, you can cram extra clothes into your hand luggage. I’ve never got around to using these – as aformentioned, I don’t reaaaally own that many items of clothing – but the foolproof rolling technique has never let me down.

P.S. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is just one of the ways I keep this blog running!

• New Zealand
• The Philippines
• The Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• Overland Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Travel Tips
• Working Abroad
• Accomodation Guides
• Overland Travel
• Preserving Cultures
• Protecting Animals
• Living Abroad

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Trip Planning
• Tech & Gear

33 Packing Hacks That Will Change the Way You Travel

Sofie Delauw / Getty Images

Everyone has their own trip packing hacks learned through years of experience. In my case, I’ve jotted down tweaks and hacks for upcoming trips over 10 years of travel—and shared those here.

Grab a few ideas from this list and add them to your own methodologies of packing for a better experience.

Refining Your Own Packing Hacks

Every traveler has different methods for bringing what they need—and often a lot of what they don’t need—along on trips abroad. When packing for a trip to Asia, items that seemed like a good idea at home don’t always work out once you’re on the ground at the destination.

Consider keeping notes after each trip of what you used, didn’t use, or wish you had brought more along. Keep your own list of packing hacks in your luggage so that you’ll see it the next time you pack for a trip.

Packing for Transportation

• Keep a pen (and an extra one for your seatmate) on international flights. You’ll need it to complete immigration and customs forms handed out by flight attendants before arriving in Asia .
• Keep your additional passport photos (they come in handy for visa and permit applications) accessible in your day bag rather than buried in your luggage. You may need them in immigration queues before you’re allowed to collect your luggage. You’ll be forced to take—and pay for—new photos if yours aren’t handy.
• When carrying a backpack, proactively put the rain cover on anytime you are making a move. I once had a backpack arrive covered in chicken feathers and droppings because someone’s live cargo had escaped in the hold!

Packing Electronics for Asia

• Whenever possible, keep chargers with associated devices. If your luggage is lost or delayed, at least you’ll still be able to use the devices carried in your day bag.
• Your smartphone, tablet, or laptop (should you bring it?) will need serious, crush-proof cases to protect them from the dangers of the road.
• Remember that the voltage in Asia is higher than that in the U.S. Don’t bring along power-sharing devices or surge protectors that aren’t rated for 220/240v. Most modern electronic devices, especially those that are USB chargeable, can autosense voltage and won’t have any trouble.
• Per new regulations, solar chargers , battery packs, and all other lithium batteries have to be carried on board rather than stowed in checked luggage .

See answers to frequently asked questions about travel tech.

Packing Liquids

• Tape the lids of bottles closed. Doing so may prevent a big mess, and it’s no big deal to break the tape seals after all the flying is done.
• Remember that your stuff will be subjected to big temperature swings. Any cosmetics with a coconut oil base will immediately melt —and potentially leak out of containers—in Southeast Asia.
• Going to higher elevations (e.g., Nepal, North India, etc) will cause toiletries to be under pressure; they’ll squirt when you open them.
• Resealable plastic bags are indispensable on the road. All bottles of liquids should be in dedicated bags to contain potential leaks. Mark on the bags what was inside so that you don’t inadvertently reuse the bag with DEET residue for edibles, etc.

Packing For Good Security

• Don’t pack your most valuable items in side pockets or overly accessible places.
• Thieves on public transportation often have only seconds to reach inside of a victim’s bag. Ensure that they grab a handful of dirty laundry packed near the top rather than something important.
• Daybags with labels such as “Lenovo” or “LowePro” declare to thieves that an expensive laptop or camera may be inside.

See some other tips for avoiding theft while traveling .

General Packing Hacks

• Even if traveling with a smartphone , always have a notepad and pen handy, not buried in your bags. Along with jotting quick notes and directions, you can have locals write addresses to show drivers, etc.
• Some over-the-counter medications available in the U.S. (Sudafed is one) are actually illegal when flying into countries such as Japan. Know what’s hiding in your first-aid kit to avoid potential delays.
• Singapore and a handful of other countries have very strict laws about what can be brought into the country ; officials aren’t shy about handing out steep fines. For example, electronic cigarettes are banned in Singapore .
• Put rubber bands around books to prevent the covers from getting bent and damaged.
• Ideally, all devices that need batteries will require the same size so that you only carry one type. “AA” is the easiest to find in Asia.
• Lithium batteries are lighter and last longer, often making them a better choice for travel. Many airlines now require that all lithium batteries be carried on; don’t keep them in luggage to be checked!
• When trying to decide whether or not to bring something (e.g., extra batteries, insect repellent, etc) figure out if it will be available locally. Purchasing things as you need them at your destination benefits the local economy and helps prevent the most common packing mistake : overpacking. Even with that in mind, there are a few items you’ll want to bring to Asia from home .
• Rolled clothing takes up less room in luggage; roll rather than fold. Dirty laundry takes up more room than neatly folded clothing. See what clothing to bring to Southeast Asia .
• When packing a backpack, place heavier items lower in the pack and against your back for better balance.
• Don’t waste any space; socks can be stuffed into shoes. See the best shoes to pack for Asia .
• Water is heavy. Always opt for powers (e.g., powdered laundry detergent) over liquids when possible.
• Have two copies of your travel insurance information : one in your luggage and one you carry at all times. See some travel documents that you should carry.
• The guidebooks for sprawling countries such as Indonesia and India are very heavy. If weight is an issue and you’re set on bringing a guidebook, some backpackers use a razor blade to cut out only the pertinent sections for places they are visiting. You can staple maps and information together by destination.
• You can “laminate” documents yourself to protect them by wrapping box tape on both sides. Use tape to waterproof your travel insurance contact card, to protect maps cut out of guidebooks, etc.
• Pack modularly in “kits.” Although they may offer slightly less protection, soft bags and cases take up less room in luggage than hard, rigid cases.
• Colored ditty bags are a lightweight, water-resistant solution for protecting and quickly finding small items in big luggage.
• Pack consistently (e.g., based on colored kits) so that you can quickly and easily find what you need. Try to develop and use the same system on every trip.
• Lightweight luggage scales are great to ensure that your luggage isn’t over an airline’s maximum allowance, but leave them at home after using them. You’ll find penny scales in 7-Eleven minimarts and public places in Asia for weighing your bags (and yourself!) before flying home.
• You can lessen your impact environmentally in a place by bringing along a few small items for green travel.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Every Asia packing list should include these 8 items

Recently updated on July 13th, 2023 at 05:05 pm

How do you even begin to decide on what to prioritise for the perfect Asia packing list? With our help, of course! From lacing up your boots in the Himalayas to boardshorts in Bali, the world’s largest continent delivers an incredible array of diverse experiences, landscapes and climates, and that means packing smart. 

Half the adventure is in figuring out what to bring to Asia . You’ll be able to buy some of what you need there, but it’s a great idea to brush up on how to dress before you get there to make the most of the continent’s rich culture and experiences in comfort and style.  

RELATED CONTENT :   Why everyone needs a bucket-list trip to Asia at least once in their lives  

Ready to get going? We’ve covered some of the essentials below:   

What to include on your Asia packing list 

Layers, check. Sunscreen, check. Rain poncho, check. Your Asia packing list is getting off to a good start and there’s plenty more to add to it, but we’d recommend leaving a little space in your luggage for the fantastic souvenirs that will remind you of your epic exploration of this varied continent.  

What to wear and how to dress in Asia depends greatly on the destination you’re visiting. On your journey across this vast region, you could watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, hike the Himalayas, sail Halong Bay, explore the lost ruins of Angkor Wat, trace the Great Wall of China or eat sushi for breakfast in Tokyo. The tried and tested tip to preparing for these diverse experiences is to keep it light, loose and dry.  

Ready to learn how? Apply these principles to your Asia packing list and you’ll master what to wear in Asia, whether your travels take you from Singapore to Sri Lanka, or Thailand to Cambodia. 

GET INSPIRED BY:  Thailand and the Temples of Angkor

Tips for what to wear in Asia  

Dress modestly .

Part of the joy of exploring Asia is getting to grips with its beautiful heritage and culture and that means extraordinary experiences in the continent’s most sacred sites. From the temples of Nepal and Pagodas of Myanmar, to sacred caves in Laos and mosques in Singapore, no visit to Asia is complete without visiting some of the sites most revered by its locals. Show your respect by kicking off your shoes and covering up – outfits covering shoulders and the knees are a must. 

RELATED CONTENT :  Sacred Sites in Asia: From Temples to Pagodas  

Keep it loose and comfortable 

Comfort is key when exploring Asia. You’ll want to keep your wardrobe loose and light-fitting, opting for outfits made from natural fibres like cotton, which dry quickly and don’t cling to you. Think wide leg trousers, button-down shirts and long skirts to keep you light and breezy no matter where your travels take you.  Leave the strappy tops, short shorts and jeans at home.  

Sensible footwear 

You’re likely to spend a lot of time on your feet when exploring Asia and that means well-fitted footwear is a non-negotiable. Depending on your itinerary, you could opt for flipflops, sturdy sandals, walking shoes or hiking boots. Check what makes the most sense for your trip, but there’s no need to bring along anything dressy or expensive.  

Warm layers 

Don’t be fooled into thinking Asia is tropical and balmy year-round. Depending on the destination and the time of year you’re visiting, you may well need to pack a few warm layers to keep you comfortable at higher altitudes and at night. From the Thai highlands and Sapa in Vietnam to the ski resorts of Sapporo in Japan and the Himalayas, you’ll be grateful you switched up your short sleeves for something warmer.  

8 essential items to bring to Asia 

No need to panic if you’ve left any of the following at home because shopping is something your Asian hosts know how to do well. However, if you’d like to maximise your sightseeing time, you’ll do well to think ahead about what to bring to Asia.  Here are our recommendations:   

Translation app   

Nothing beats a good translation app. While many locals do speak English, having an app could prove handy in an otherwise frustrating situation.  

Insect repellent   

South East Asia is particularly known for mosquitos. So, if you want to avoid dreaded itchiness and being kept up half the night, insect repellent is a must.   

Plug adapter and converter   

With the exceptions of Japan and Taiwan, most countries in Asia use a 230-240V system, which is where your life-saving converter comes in. If you don’t have one, it’s well worth the investment.  

Umbrella/Waterproof jacket   

Always check the weather report for the day as Asia is renowned for unpredictable downpours. Consequently, having a waterproof jacket or umbrella could just save the day. While we’re at it, a quick-dry towel is really handy after a surprise downpour.  

Portable charger   

There are 101 reasons why your devices should be charged at all times. Be sure to pick up a portable charger if you don’t have one. Nobody wants to be on the back end of a dead device in an unfamiliar destination.  

Hand sanitiser, wipes and tissues   

Not only are these essential during COVID times, but some bathrooms might not provide soap or toilet paper. In which case, it’s always great to have a backup.  

RELATED CONTENT: What to pack in your travel hygiene kit

Sarong / Scarf   

The sarong is a fantastic accessory to your “what to wear in Asia” itinerary.  They’re great for evading the sunny rays on a hot day and can be also used as a quick coverup around the shoulders when visiting sacred sites.  

Headphones / earplugs  

These offer an excellent means to escape the bustle – one thing Asian cities aren’t is quiet.  

With your Asia packing list sorted, you’re probably excited to get going. Or perhaps you’ve already travelled and have some handy tips on what to wear and bring in Asia. We’d love to hear them all in the comments below!   

Want to hear more from us?

Sign up to receive inspiring travel articles, offers & news

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

Sign up for our emails (popup).

• Privacy Policy

• Disclosure Policy
• Travel Tips
• 109 Genius Travel Hacks
• Teach Abroad
• Work With Us

Asia Guides

The best southeast asia packing list for a carry-on.

Southeast Asia packing list! Packing for a trip to Southeast Asia does not need to be complicated. Here is everything you need to pack, no matter how long your trip is. This Southeast Asia packing list is perfect for those who want to save $$$ on checking in luggage on flights.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Deciding what to put on your Southeast Asia packing list

We have all been there, pondering for ages on what to pack. Putting items in, taking items out over and over again. No matter if you’re heading on a self backpacking trip to Vietnam , or backpacking the whole of Southeast Asia on a group tour , you will ideally only want to pack the essentials. Essentials are limited to things such as sun cream as it is more expensive than in the UK and often contains skin whitening products and branded make-up. Apart from that, you can buy almost anything that you need at the local supermarkets in Southeast Asia. Items and clothing are often cheaper than at home anyway. To put it bluntly, if you are contemplating if you need it or not, then you probably don’t, so don’t bother packing it.

Choosing a backpack for your trip to Southeast Asia

Before packing, it’s important to choose a good backpack. We don’t recommend a wheelie suitcase for this corner of the earth, as the roads are not well paved, and cheap hostels and hotels don’t tend to have elevators. Therefore, we recommend using a comfortable backpack to carry your belongings.

When choosing a backpack, make sure you try it on and get a size that is comfortable for you. Katie uses a 40-litre Quechua backpack and Jake uses a 60-litre Quechua backpack. We also share a 20-litre daypack. With these backpacks, we manage to fit everything in; clothes, toiletries, and electronics. A massive bonus with having a smaller backpack is that if you keep it light enough, you won’t need to pay for checked luggage! Ps. The climate in most parts of Southeast Asia is warm all year round, so you won’t need to pack much thick clothing.

Southeast Asia packing list essentials

• 2 pairs of shorts (2/3 days wear out of each)
• 4 vests/tops
• 2 casual dresses
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 2 pyjama sets (shorts and tee)
• 1 costume/ bikini
• 1 pair of walking shoes
• 1 pair of flip-flops

Sometimes on night buses and boats, or in the North of Vietnam, it can get cold. It’s a good idea to bring along a few warm clothes.

• 1 pair of leggings or jogging bottoms
• 1 hoodie/ cardigan
• 1 bar of soap
• 1 small scrunchy sponge
• A few sachets of shampoo
• 1 razor blade
• 1 pack of cotton buds
• 2 small bottles of sun cream.
• 1 small moisturizer – it’s important to stop your skin from drying out because of the sun. The same goes for lips to…
• 2 lip balms
• 1 concealer
• 1 pack of hair bobbles
• 1 pack of bobby pins
• Microfiber bath towel

Electronics

• 1 universal plug adapter
• Chargers for phone/ iPad/ laptop/ camera
• Phone – You will need this for all those essential backpacker apps !
• Laptop – Only bring a laptop if you plan to work online whilst you are away! Otherwise, leave it at home.

More Southeast Asia packing tips

Day pack for valuables – As well as carrying your big backpack also take along a small 10-20L day pack. You should put your valuables in this bag and wear them on your front. Also, keep it with you at all times and avoid putting your valuables under the bus or boat.

Toiletry bag – Invest in a toiletry bag so you can keep all your bathroom essentials in one place. It will be easier for you to reach in the mornings and you won’t have to be that person rummaging through your bag and waking up your dorm mates.

Make use of the free shampoo – Some hotels/ hostels provide free shampoo sachets. Make use of them and take the ones you don’t use with you. We never had to buy shampoo as we just used the sachets of shampoo that were provided for free during our entire trip.

Carry-on luggage – If you pack light enough, your luggage should be under the weight limit for most airlines, which is usually 7kg. A bonus as you will save extra cash for your travels as you won’t need to pay extra for checking in your luggage.

Roll your clothes – Not only does rolling your clothes save space in your bag, but it also minimizes creases.

Don’t forget your passport – Most importantly, don’t forget your passport! Always carry your passport with you when you’re in transit. Never place it in your backpack that goes at the bottom of the bus. Keep it on your person.

We hope this Southeast Asia packing list has helped you decide what you need to pack, and more importantly, what you DON’T.

Essential resources for travelling in Southeast Asia

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking. com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookawa y. Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Y our Guide. Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

So, now that you’re all packed for your trip to Southeast Asia, it’s time for the fun bit…creating ideas and getting hyped up for special days on this beautiful continent. Check out our backpacking Thailand itinerary to get you started.

Like this post? Pin it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Luggage to take on a trip to Asia

If you’re planning a trip to Southeast Asia for the first time, it can be a little hard to know what to take with you. You’ve probably looked at thousands of luggage lists on various travel blogs without knowing exactly what to select and often reading conflicting advice. Should I take a pair of jeans? Do I need my laptop? Do I need a first aid kit? Is a backpack or suitcase better? Will I need boots or hiking shoes?

Luggage tips for Southeast Asia

Whether you’re planning to enjoy a few days of relaxation on the beaches of southern Thailand, watching the wildlife you can find in the jungles of Vietnam, exploring the temples of Angkor Wat or enjoying a party on a cruise around Halong Bay , we have the perfect recommendations to ensure you don’t miss or overdo anything in your luggage.

Backpack or suitcase?

This section is totally subjective to the type of traveler who comes to us. At OneMoreDestination.com we can organize trips of any kind: adventure, trekking, combined beach and mountain, honeymoons at the highest level of luxury…

Depending on the type of trip you have in mind it will be more practical to carry a suitcase or a backpack . A large number of travelers to Southeast Asia tend to make a route moving within the country or even several countries, so if you plan to move over several weeks perhaps a backpack is best suited .

Sometimes bags are incredibly impractical for moving through the narrow streets of Asian cities, many of them with bad pavement, with sidewalks full of food stalls and street vendors and full of potholes.

If you decide on a backpack, don’t carry one with you that is larger than 50 or 60 litres, as you will end up with rather sore shoulders. Although a larger backpack may seem more practical in most Southeast Asian countries, it is dominated by a tropical or subtropical climate, which means that we will have to carry a suitcase in an objectively hot and humid climate.

Although the climate in all Southeast Asian countries is quite hot, there are some areas like Sapa to Hanoi, especially during the winter, which are a bit cold. Take into account the time of year you are going to travel and the country you are going to visit to design your luggage.

At OneMoreDestination.com we recommend that your luggage contains lightweight clothing, preferably made of cotton. It is also a good idea to choose neutral colors that can be easily combined to maximize the number of different styles you can match.

It is not too advisable to put jeans in our luggage, as they are very heavy, bulky, do not sweat and take a long time to dry when we wash them. It is much better to take fine cotton trousers with us for those evenings when it is a bit colder or when we have to visit a temple and need to cover our legs.

In the case of women it is also advisable to have a sarong or handkerchief in our luggage to cover our shoulders during these visits. In any case, and if on our arrival we need some extra clothes, we can always find clothes at a very good price in any of the markets and night markets of any Asian city for a handful of euros.

It is also a very good idea to buy a microfibre towel, as they save a lot of space and dry very quickly. A microfiber towel will be very useful to us, especially if we travel to Southeast Asia during the monsoon season, when daily downpours are common.

Type of clothing

Most of the time you can easily get by in flip-flops or sandals most of the time , but it is also mandatory to bring a pair of light shoes or trekking shoes with you, especially if we are going on a jungle route. They are also very useful for those days when we plan to walk a lot during the visits or be on our feet for many hours.

It is quite advisable to take a small toilet bag with you. A toiletry bag helps to keep everything related to hygiene in one place as well as isolating the rest of the luggage from the humidity of these products. To save some more space in your luggage it is a very good idea to buy solid versions of all those toiletries: they are cheaper, lighter, take up less space and last much longer.

Practically every hygiene product you can think of can be found in a solid or block version: shampoo, shower gel, deodorants, conditioners… A small bar of soap is always useful, as well as a hairbrush, a toothbrush and nail clippers are mandatory and for women it is a very good idea to get a menstrual cup so that they do not have to worry about tampons and pads.

You will want to immortalize each and every moment of your trip while keeping in touch with your family. Here are some ideas for technology gadgets you can take with you on your trip.

Laptop computer

Internet cafés are gradually disappearing in all the major cities of South-East Asia, just as they did years ago in all the Western countries. Right now it is quite common for everyone to have their own computer.

If you have a lightweight laptop (approximately 13 to 14 inches) and you are going to have to work during your trip or send some emails you can take it with you without any problem. In any Asian coffee shop you have Wi-Fi and you can make the arrangements you want while having a coffee.

The basic of any self-respecting traveler. Nowadays we can find in the market mirrorless cameras that are much more compact than the classic reflex cameras with mirror lenses. If you are thinking of buying a camera for your trip, consider getting a mirrorless or digital sensor model: you will appreciate it for its weight and size savings, but it will not mean lower quality photos.

Electronic book

If you’re going on a package tour through several countries (which means you’ll be taking buses, trains and planes quite regularly during your trip) perhaps it’s a good idea to take your e-book with you so you can spend the hours in a more enjoyable way.

When our guides meet you at the airport on your arrival in the destination country, we give you a local SIM card so that we can be reached between us and our offices whenever you need it and you also have a phone number for the country. However, you must have a free smartphone that accepts SIM cards from any operator in the world. Nowadays it is quite common that all phones are free even some of them accept two SIM cards at the same time, so you will be able to continue having your usual phone number working.

Type of case according to destination

Southeast Asia offers a multitude of destinations for very different traveler profiles, which means that you can see yourself in the middle of the jungle at 12ºC and in the rain and days later move to a beach with a totally tropical climate. If the travel program you have in mind does not include so many contrasts (although many times it does not), here are two options for beach trips and mountain trips . If you are going to make a trip that combines both areas, simply combine the two proposals.

Example of luggage for mountain trips

• A pair of boots
• One or two shirts
• Several pants
• A fleece lining
• A microfiber towel
• A breathable raincoat
• Example of a suitcase for trips to beach areas

Two pairs of shoes, preferably one pair of sandals and one closed shoe

• Cotton T-shirts
• A cap or hat

Related tips

Vietnam is the safest country in the world. That’s what the Daily Star newspaper decided. After a detailed analysis of all the countries in the world, it has…

What are the methods for obtaining an entry visa to Myanmar? We teach you how to do it in a few minutes.

In OneMoreDestination.com we can organize any type of trip in Southeast Asia: adventure trips, combined trips from several countries and even honeymoons for newlyweds…

Everything you need to know before your trip: travel guide, tips, curious facts... and much more. The best way to prepare for your trip

• Vietnam Tips
• Thailand Tips
• Myanmar Tips
• Camboya Tips

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Central America
• South America
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Indonesia , Malaysia , Singapore , Thailand , The Philippines , Vietnam

101 backpacking asia travel tips | based on 2 years’ experience.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Southeast Asia is the place that first captured my heart and turned me into a traveller. While I know many of the countries well, there’s always more to do, see and experience in this captivating region. It’s fantastic for all types of travellers, but today I’m going to be sharing my Asia backpacking tips . Southeast Asia is one of the world’s most popular places for backpacking. It’s cheap, safe and beautiful with friendly people and delicious food. From pho to laksa, banh mi, pad Thai, massaman curry and chilli crab, you’ll never have your fill… Of Asia, or the food!

Related read: the ultimate Southeast Asia bucket list

SOUTHEAST ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Hostelworld / Booking.com Lonely Planet Southeast Asia Activities: GetYourGuide / Klook

What to know before backpacking Southeast Asia

Despite being safe and friendly, there’s still plenty to know before you embark on a Southeast Asia backpacking trip. Not only do you want to make the most of your trip and not miss anything, but most of the countries are different to the West in terms of attitudes, values, religion and customs. These Southeast Asia tips will help you make the best of your trip and ensure you don’t get in trouble or cause cultural offence. Then, there’s living out of a backpack for an extended period: a challenge in itself! I’ll share my packing tips for backpacking Southeast Asia including what to bring and what to bin.

I spent 11 months backpacking Asia between 2015-16, parts solo and parts with friends. It was a fun and carefree trip. The photos suck but the memories triumph. I drank too much, learnt a lot, took terrible photos, and generally dipped my toes into Southeast Asia. Then, when I started working remotely , I spent 14 months in Southeast Asia from 2018-19. I based between Vietnam, Bali, Thailand and Malaysia, getting to know cities like Hanoi , Hoi An , Ubud , Penang and Chiang Mai . Although I had more laptop days than late nights, I slowed down and got to know the locals. Both trips were wonderful in their own ways. After 25 months in Southeast Asia, I feel I’m still scratching the surface. A lifetime would be too short! (Then I buggered off to Mexico and fell in love all over again. So fickle!)

Here are my top travel tips for Asia…

Asia tips for planning and organisation

1. Plan your route right – you don’t want to end up going back on yourself and spending extra money on transport. I did this all wrong, learnt from my errors and put together this backpacking Asia route & itinerar y .  2. Spend enough time per country – this is another lesson I learnt the hard way. I didn’t spend nearly enough time in Cambodia or Laos. Research what you want to do and see in each country before deciding how long to spend.  3. But don’t over plan – this may sound contradictory but I’d advise keeping things loose enough that you can travel with new friends if / when you meet them. I’d suggest not booking your transport too far in advance. 

4. Vaccinations  – check which are required for the countries you wish to visit. 5. Visas  – suss out visa requirements before your trip. You can get in trouble for overstaying even if by accident. Some countries like Vietnam only allow entry for 2 weeks without a visa (for most nationalities). You can apply for a longer one in advance or ensure your travel itinerary fits into their requirements.

6. Get travel insurance! It’s not worth travelling without it. I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . 7. Ensure you have 6 months left on your passport – this is a rule for travel in general not just Southeast Asia.

8. Carry copies of your vital documents – this is an important tip for Asia travel (and travel generally). I keep a scan of my passport and insurance details close in case of emergency.

9. Avoid burning seasons – Northern Thailand turns into a land of polluted fog between February and April. I would time your trip outside this period. 10. Be aware of local holidays – for example, Vietnam shuts down for Tet on 1 February. You won’t be able to catch a bus or visit any attractions. Likewise, Nyepi in Bali (usually in March) is when bad spirits are thought to fly over. Shops are shut and everyone has to stay indoors. 11. Proof of onward travel – occasionally when entering a country, you’ll be asked to provide proof that you’ll exit before the end of your visa. One way to get around this is by booking a refundable journey on Expedia.COM (very important it’s the US site) and cancelling within the set period. 12. Don’t be scared to go solo – I can personally vouch for solo travel in Vietnam , Thailand , Malaysia , Indonesia , Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines . With hostels and public transport, solo travel won’t cost much more, either. Keep reading for my budget tips for backpacking Southeast Asia…

Read next: my solo travel guides

13. Get off the beaten track – as Asia backpacking tips go, this could be the best one yet. Since Southeast Asia is so safe, you don’t have to worry about staying on-grid (like you would in India for example). Make sure you escape the tourist hotspots in search of more peaceful places. 14. Download the right apps – some of the best apps for travelling Asia include XE (currency converter), Uber and Grab, Skyscanner , Google Translate, SplitWise (great for splitting bills with travel buddies) and Maps.me.

Travel tips for Asia

15. Use 12Go – this website and app is ridiculously useful. It shows transport options between any two destinations including bus, train, ferry and boat. Compare durations and price, and pay by card or PayPal. 

16. Get used to long bus journeys – you’ll be a pro by the end. Always bring a book / Kindle or download something to watch on your phone or tablet (but don’t flash around expensive devices). Keep your valuables close on night buses. 17. Know which border crossings are easy (and when to fly) – it’s usually easy to cross Asian borders but there are a few mammoth journeys where you’ll wish you flew. Here’s a quick summary:

• Thailand to Cambodia – easy. Take a 13-hour bus or 16-hour train from Bangkok to Siem Reap .
• Thailand to Laos – easy (although time-consuming) on the slow boat or bus . For the boat, travel from Huay Xai (easily reachable from Chiang Rai ) to Luang Prabang with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
• Laos to Vietnam – this is a long bus journey between Luang Prabang and Hanoi lasting up to 28 hours. You may want to fly instead.
• Vietnam to Cambodia – easy. Take a 6-hour bus between Saigon and Phnom Penh (or a river adventure over the course of a few days ).
• Thailand to Malaysia – catch a ferry from Koh Lipe to Langkawi .

18. Agree taxi prices beforehand – or insist on using the meter. Keep an eye out for rigged meters that start shooting up by huge amounts. If this happens, get out. 19. Download the local taxi apps – countries often have their own version of Uber. I used GoJek in Indonesia and Grab in Vietnam and Thailand. As well as cars, you can call scooter taxis – these are a game-changer for travelling on a budget ! Your driver will provide you with a helmet.

20. Take public transport – don’t be shy. Journeys are often listed on Google Maps so use your phone to check you’re not headed in the wrong direction. Public transport is the cheapest way to get around.

21. Research how to get around in new cities – major cities in Southeast Asia often have efficient transport networks. For example: 

• Bangkok – Metro and Sky Train (pay with cash or card)
• Chiang Mai – songthaews (big red share taxis – just hail them and pay in cash)
• Hanoi – bus (pay the fares of 5-10k VND in cash)
• Kuala Lumpur – there are several trains: the Metro, LRT, monorail and KLIA airport express (pay with cash or card).

22. Learn to ride a scooter – providing you wear a helmet and your insurance covers it, riding a scooter is a great way to explore Asia on a budget, especially in Bali where there’s no public transport. Hire yours in advance . 23. Photograph them before leaving the rental store – snap any existing scratches or damage when you hire your scooter in case you get charged for it. 24. Download Maps.me – this is your best app for navigation. Download offline maps for whole countries.

Southeast Asia tips for staying connected

25. There’s usually Wi-Fi – I spent a whole year in Asia relying on Wi-Fi rather than buying a SIM card. Most hostels have Wi-Fi as well as many cafes and public places. 26. SIM cards – it’s easy to find affordable SIM cards should you want them. Ask staff at your hostel staff where to get one. Monthly data packages often cost $5-10. Check Klook for pre-ordered SIM cards delivered to your accommodation. Update – there’s a new eSim data package that works around most countries in SE Asia. Just scan the QR code to activate it!

27. Skype credit – I use FaceTime and WhatsApp to call friends and family but Skype is a godsend when I need to make a phone call home (for example to my bank or insurance company). Skype credit is a fraction of the price of making an international call via a SIM card. Use the web version or mobile app. 28. Get a Mobile Wi-Fi hotspot – these let you insert a SIM card and share the data between your devices. This can be handy for watching things in the evenings as often Wi-Fi is available in hostel communal areas but doesn’t stretch to the rooms. 29. Travel with a VPN – to browse the internet securely and ensure your personal details don’t get shared via public Wi-Fi networks, use a VPN. They also bypass countries’ restrictions so you’ll be able to watch shows from your home country.

Tips for Asia backpacking & hostels

The following backpacking Southeast Asia tips will help set your expectations for hostels & meeting people on the road.

Related read: how to meet people when travelling solo

30. Pick the right hostel for you – I’d describe myself as an extrovert who likes nightlife and even at 21, some of the Asia hostels were too much for me. You’ll meet people in party hostels who don’t seem to even like travel – they just want to drink and hook up! Which is fine, but just be aware what you’re letting yourself in for. 31. There are cosy hostels too – it’s easy to find family-run hostels that attract a friendly backpack crowd. Look at the photos and reviews on Hostelworld to make an educated guess.

Want to save money on accommodation? I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects travellers with homeowners who need their homes & pets sat. It means staying longer in a place but can be great if you’re not in a rush! Plus, you get to hang out with cute pets.

32. Be approachable  – don’t bring your book to communal areas. 33. Pack earplugs – especially in party hostels! Aside from people coming in drunk, hooking up or snoring, there’s always some noise in dorms whether it’s someone going to the bathroom or leaving for a flight. 34. Don’t be THAT dorm mate – pack the night before . This should really go in the ethical Asia tips below 😉 There’s nothing worse than being woken up at 6am by the sound of a dorm mate packing for their flight. 35. Join Facebook groups – search for backpacking Asia groups on Facebook. You may cross paths with the members or glean useful Southeast Asia travel tips. Those that identify as women can join Girls Love Travel . 36. Make friends with locals – don’t stick to socialising with other backpackers! Befriend tour guides and hostel staff. Get chatting to locals when you’re out and about. You’ll have a blast and learn a lot from them.

Related read: How to pick a great travel buddy

Cultural immersion tips

37. Get used to the bum gun – two words not usually used in the same sentence. This handy device is used in place of toilet paper in many Asian bathrooms. 38. Prepare for squat toilets – these aren’t everywhere but you’ll encounter them at some point. 39. Prepare for different health and safety standards – things are quite relaxed in comparison to Western countries but do always insist on helmets / life jackets etc. Your insurance may be void otherwise. Suggesting you’ll take your business elsewhere usually results in someone ‘finding’ a spare helmet…

Wellbeing backpacking tips for Asia

40. Know you might get homesick – it’s normal and not a sign of failure. Luckily, technology is good when you want to call people back home. You can usually find Western comforts when you need them, especially in major cities like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Nothing wrong with a mall day!  41. Plan rest days – I massively burnt myself out during my first Asia backpacking trip. I didn’t factor any rest days and almost stopped enjoying myself altogether. It’s worth booking a private room and having a few lazy days to do life admin, laundry etc. 

Tips for eating in Southeast Asia

42. Eat street food  – the food is about 60% of the reason I always return to Asia. It’s delicious! Check out some of my Asian food guides:

• Hanoi street food
• Hoi An street food
• Saigon street food
• Finding the best bahn mi in Vietanm
• Chiang Mai food guide
• Bangkok Chinatown food guide
• Kuala Lumpur Chinatown food guide
• Penang street food
• Where to eat in Melaka, Malaysia
• Singapore street food
• Best Ubud warungs
• Restaurants in Canggu, Bali

43. Bring reusable items  – sadly a lot of plastic in used in Asia. There are a few items I travel with and would recommend taking with you. These are:

• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag (pro tip – learn how to say ‘no straw please’ in local languages)
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
• Reusable Tupperware box for takeaway and leftover food
• Reusable bamboo cutlery set for eating at markets.

44. Don’t drink tap water in Asia – it’s safe to drink bottled water (just make sure the lid is sealed) although not very sustainable. It’s best to bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up from large filtered units at your accommodation. Alternatively, pack a filtering water bottle that sterilises water for safe drinking.

45. Eat where it’s busy  – in terms of street food safety, this is one of the best Asia tips for staying healthy. Eat where it’s busy because there will be a quick turnaround of food meaning nothing has been sat around long. If locals are eating there, it’s a bonus.

46. Drink local beer – keep it cheap by keeping it local. Drink Chang in Thailand, Bintang in Bali and beer hoi (locally produced fresh beer) in Vietnam.

47. Take cooking classes – these are so much fun. I’ve taken them in most Southeast Asian countries now. Some of my favourites are Aroy Aroy Cooking School in Chiang Mai and Thuan Tinh Island Cooking Tour in Hoi An.

Safety tips for Southeast Asia

The following Southeast Asia backpacking tips will keep you safe. But remember you still need insurance however careful you are! 48. Watch out for pickpockets – Southeast Asia has little violent crime. Having your valuables stolen is as bad as it gets. While not life-threatening, you still want to avoid it. The following Asia tips will help you avoid sticky situations…  49. Split up your bank cards – for the love of god! If you ignore the other 100 Southeast Asia tips in this blog and just remember this, my work is done. Don’t lose them all once like I did.  50. Scooter snatchers – the most common way to get robbed is when you’re on foot and a couple of guys whiz by on a scooter, the one at the back grabbing your phone/bag. It happened to me in Vietnam. To stay safe… 51. Wear a crossbody bag – I usually wear the one below but you can go even safer with one that goes around your chest or waist . I have one I sleep wearing on night buses.

Packing tips for Asia

The following travel tips for Southeast Asia relate to luggage, clothes and useful travel gadgets and accessories … 52. Get a good backpack – you’ll be carrying it every few days so it’s worth getting a decent one. I recommend the Osprey Farpoint ( men’s ) ( women’s ). You won’t need more than 65L. In terms of day bags, I use a:

• Small rucksack for hiking (which I carry on my front during transit days)
• Crossbody bag for days/nights out
• Secure bum bag for night buses.

53. Packing cubes – these are a lifeline for organising your luggage. 54. Pack light – I’d suggest tops and bottoms that you can mix n match, underwear and swimwear, an extra layer for evenings/cooler places, and a raincoat. Laundry facilities are cheap so you don’t need many outfits. Bring 1 pair of comfy walking shoes (hiking boots not necessary unless you’re doing something extreme), 1 pair or sandals and 1 pair of flip flops.  55. Keep it casual for evenings out – you rarely need fancy going out clothes in SE Asia. I pack 1-2 ‘nice’ dresses for days and nights out. 56. Sarong – although you’ll look like a tourist, this is a handy Southeast Asia tip. I have a trusty sarong I use on the beach, to cover my legs at temples, and as a cover on bus journeys. Don’t worry if you leave home without one – you can buy them cheaply at markets in Asia. 

57. Don’t wear white – it’ll never stay clean. I don’t know if dust and mud is particularly stubborn in Southeast Asia or if it’s something about the laundry… Either way, just don’t do it. 58. Wear cool clothes – it’s better to have cool cotton clothes than synthetic materials which make you sweat in the heat. I often prefer to wear long (but thin) sleeves and pants that save you getting burnt. These are also better for visiting religious sites where revealing clothing may cause cultural offence. 59. Bring enough sunscreen – I’ve been burnt (literally) before. When you buy local Asian brands of sunscreen, it rarely works. Make sure to bring enough for your trip or buy it from a reputable store or mall in Asia. It’ll be pricey but worth it. 

60. Mosquito spray – the same goes for mosquito spray. Aim to bring enough for your trip as local brands may vary in quality. 61. Don’t bring designer items – no one else will have them and you’ll put yourself at risk of theft. 62. No need to worry about sunglasses – you will find $1 ‘Raybans’ on every street corner in Southeast Asia. 

63. Neck pillow – the holy grail of backpacker items! You won’t regret the space a neck pillow takes up.

64. Sanitary products – this is a useful Asia tip for people with periods. You can usually only buy pads not tampons. Either take a bunch with you or – the more sustainable option – pack a moon cup (or similar brand) . 65. Watch out for whitening products – it’s worth noting that body products in Asia commonly contain skin whitener. Scrutinise the packaging; I was usually able to find products without… Aside from deodorant. I spent a year with very pale underarms.

Money tips for backpacking Asia

The following travel tips for Asia will help you budget and – hopefully – travel for longer.. . 66. Know what to budget – generally, $1,000 a month is a good starting point for Southeast Asia backpacking although it’s worth noting that countries vary in price. Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are the cheapest in my opinion. I’ll put together a big guide to do this topic justice but a few general costs (in USD) are:

• Bed in a hostel dorm – $3-10
• Private hostel room or budget guesthouse – $15-20
• Street food meal – $1-3
• Western-style restaurant meal – $5
• Bottled water – $1
• Intercountry bus journey – $10-20
• Day tours – $10-50
• Diving – $300 for a 3-day course inc accommodation in Koh Tao.

67. Learn to haggle – locals expect it so don’t pay the first price quoted, especially at crafts markets. 

68. Volunteer – in the past, I’ve volunteered in exchange for food and board using Workaway and Worldpackers . They have plenty of positions from hostel work to farming, language exchanges and helping with promotion. There are even a few paid positions.  Read next: which is better, Workaway or Worldpackers ? 69. Travel through the night – not only do you save the cost of a night’s accommodation, but you free up the next day (although this is hit-and-miss – I often end up napping if I’ve not slept well on the bus). 70. Have USD – since there’s no universal currency in Asia, it’s worth bringing some USD ($100 or so). You’ll thank me for this Asia travel tip when you need to buy a visa on the border but haven’t been able to withdraw local currency yet.

71. Always carry cash – you can rarely pay with card in Southeast Asia. Withdraw cash every few days so you’re not carrying too much. 72. Prepare for various currencies – if you have money leftover when entering a new country, exchange it at a reputable money changer (do a bit of research for example this article on the best places to exchange money in Hanoi ). Airports charge the worst rates and there are often scams at land borders. Use XE currency app to check you’re getting a decent rate. Main currencies in Southeast Asia :

• Vietnam – Dong (VND)
• Indonesia – Rupiah (RP)
• Cambodia – Riel (KHR) and USD
• Laos – Kip (LAK)
• Malaysia – Ringgit (RM)
• Singapore – Singapore dollar (SGD)
• Thailand – Baht (THB)
• Myanmar – Kyat (MMK)
• Philippines – Pesos (PHP).

73. Sign up for mobile banks with reduced fees – my three favourites for UK travellers are Monzo, Revolut and Starling. Wise (for all nationalities) is great for low-cost international money transfers. If you get one of their cash cards, there are no foreign transaction fees and you can withdraw $250 a month without fees.

Ethical tips for Asia

The following tips for travelling Southeast Asia will ensure everyone benefits from your travels! 74. Avoid unethical animal activities – the tiger temple is a truly despicable place in Thailand where tigers are drugged for tourist photos. Never go. Also, don’t listen to anyone who tells you it’s okay to ride elephants. Here’s why not . 75. Avoid human tourism – for example the Karen ‘long neck’ groups in Northern Thailand. Many are actually Burmese and have had their passports confiscated to keep them trapped for tourism purposes. Be wary and read reviews whenever people are involved in tourist activities. 76. Give tips  – if you’ve had good service, tip your tour guide/waiter at least 10%. 77. Learn a bit of local lingo  – even if it’s just hello, thank you and goodbye, people will appreciate it.

Tours in Asia

78. Know you rarely NEED them – although I often enjoy taking tours to learn from local guides and support their livelihoods, it’s easy to do Southeast Asia independently. The ones I would recommend however are an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay and a trekking tour in Sapa (both in Vietnam). 

79. Multi day / week tours – again, you don’t need to take these but if you’re lonely or burnt out from organising everything, they can be a worthwhile investment. G Adventures are great for getting off-the-beaten-track while Contiki are more of a young, social company. Consider taking one in the middle of your trip if you need a break.

80. Day tours – if I can’t be bothered with organisation or I’m visiting somewhere tricky to access by public transport, I browse Viator , GetYourGuide and Klook to see who has the best offer on day tours.

81. Asian food tours are great! Yes, you can go it alone and eat like a king/queen BUT I love taking food tours because you get to try so many things by splitting them with the group, plus the guides always know best. My favourite food tour operator in Asia is A Chef’s Tour . So far I’ve taken their Chiang Mai Northern Food Tour by Truck and their Bangkok Chinatown tour .

What to know before backpacking Asia: country-specific tips

Now I’ve shared my general travel tips for Asia, here are a few country-specific tidbits…

Tips for Vietnam

• 82. Get the sleeper bus all down the coast – since Vietnam is so long and thin, it’s easy to travel without going back on yourself. The journeys are often long but the buses are comfortable with individual beds. Buy a book of tickets in any Hanoi or Saigon travel agents or individually on 12Go .
• 83. Spend enough time in Northern Vietnam – I’d suggest 3 days in Sapa and a 2-night Ha Long Bay trip. Since you’ll need to connect through Hanoi (where I’d also recommend spending 3 days), you’ll want to dedicate at least a week to Northern Vietnam. 

Essential reading: 2 week – 1 month Vietnam itinerary | 3 x North Vietnam itineraries | 3 day Hanoi itinerary | Hoi An itinerary | Saigon itinerary

Tips for Thailand 

• 84. Time your trip around festivals – Songkran water festival in April is a blast wherever you spend it. Yi Peng and Loy Krathong are lantern festivals held in November in Chiang Mai.
• 85. You can only spend 30 days in Thailand without a visa – consider exploring Bangkok and the north then heading through Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam before returning to Thailand for another 30 days to do the islands justice.

Related reads: Solo travel in Thailand | 2 day Bangkok itinerary | 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary | things to do in Chiang Rai

Tips for Cambodia

• 86. Prepare for heartbreak at Phnom Penh’s Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Although it’s difficult to see and learn about, it’s important to understand Cambodia’s recent history.
• 87. You only use Cambodian Riel for small purchases like local buses. For everything else, use USD. You can withdraw this from Cambodian ATMs.

Tips for Laos

• 88. Don’t stick to the north – Four Thousand Islands in Southern Laos are beautiful and a convenient place to cross into Cambodia.
• 89. The capital isn’t great – there’s not much to do in Vientiane from a tourist perspective although there is good food.
• 90. Visit Vang Vieng for ecotourism – now the dangerous tubing bars have closed, the region is ripe for exploring spectacular nature.

Tips for Myanmar

• 91. Be aware of the political situation – in 2023, it’s not safe to visit Myanmar. I’ll update this section as things develop.

Tips for Indonesia

• 92. Don’t stick to Bali – there are 17,000 islands in Indonesia so it would be a shame to only see one. I spent time on Java Island and want to visit Komodo and Flores. 
• 93. Taxi apps are banned in Bali – there’s also no public transport so unless you hire a scooter , you’ll spend a lot of money on (overpriced) government taxis.  Full-day private taxi tours with companies like GetYourGuide are often more affordable.
• 94. Get your vegan fix! The cuisine in most Asian countries is heavily meaty; this is your place to indulge in plant-based Balinese food .

Related reads: 2 week Bali itinerary | 3 day Ubud itinerary | Hidden gems in Bali | top places in North Bali

Tips for Malaysia

• 95. Unlike most Asian countries, Malaysia has an efficient train network – or you can take the bus between destinations. When travelling within cities, there are no taxi scooters (only Uber cars) so budget a little extra.
• 96. Penang is food heaven ! Save all your stomach room for a trip to George Town.
• 97. In Kuala Lumpur, stay in Chinatown – there’s great food in KL Chinatown and most of the attractions are nearby.

Related reads: 2 week Malaysia itinerary | How to spend 2 days in Kuala Lumpur | Things to do in Ipoh | Things to do in Melaka | Things to do in Penang

Tips for Singapore

• 98. Singapore CAN be done on a budget – I ate at hawker markets (hardly a problem as the food is delicious!), stayed in hostels and took the Metro. You might want to splash out on the Cloud Forest and a Singapore Sling cocktail, though.
• 99. Check prices before ordering – I got tricked into paying $50 for chilli crab at a street stall because I hadn’t checked the price first. I later learnt this is a common scam: everything else on the menu will be $5 apart from the crab which is ‘priced by weight’. You then get charged a ridiculous figure and can’t argue because you already ate it!

Related reads: 2 day Singapore itinerary | Best Singapore street food guide | Koon Seng Road | Singapore street art

Tips for the Philippines 

• 100. Budget time and money for getting between islands – it’s not easy to island-hop by boat. Islands like Palawan and Cebu are a flight apart usually with a stop in Manila.
• 101. Get outta Manila ! This is one of my least favourite cities in Southeast Asia. It’s polluted, not especially safe and the traffic is ridiculous.

Related read: Complete guide to backpacking the Philippines | the best islands to visit in the Philippines

Phew, 101 travel tips for Asia all wrapped up! Did you learn anything new?

Use my Southeast Asia bucket list and my Southeast Asia itinerary & route planner to help plan your adventure.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Liked these travel tips for Southeast Asia? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Packing for Southeast Asia: How to Travel with 7 Kilograms or Less

Asia Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Packing for Southeast Asia? Expert traveler Lois from award-winning blog We Are Sole Sisters shows you how to travel light with 7 kilograms or less! For more insider tips, download her book “Where Should I Go in Southeast Asia?”

Packing for Southeast Asia with 7 Kg or Less

Written by: Lois Yasay Ribeiro

My first time packing for Southeast Asia I carried a 15 kilogram backpack for a six month trip. I’m barely 5 feet tall and weigh less than 50 kilograms so you can imagine how dwarfed I was by my luggage. By the end of my trip, I had to bring it down to less than half. I either sold, gave away or threw out nearly half of my luggage. Why?

Because it’s really inconvenient to carry around all that weight. Imagine having to run a few kilometers down the road to catch the last bus to your next destination and carrying such a heavy load. You get the picture.

Carrying a lot of weight can be bad for your back. I’ve had chronic back pain for nearly a year now and I suspect it was from my years of extreme backpacking.

You can visit more places faster when you travel light. When I decided to live a life of a full time traveler, this was my mantra: “If you want to travel for a very long time, remember that you only own what you can carry”.

If you also want to save money on airline baggage fees, the most ideal weight for your carry on is 7 kilograms. Find a backpack that fits in the overhead bin and you’re sure to be one of the first people out of the airport.

The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing shown in this video!

Another thing you’ll learn is that you don’t really need all that stuff. The irony is that you’ll realize this near the end of your trip.

So what do you need to know when packing for Southeast Asia? Here’s the breakdown:

What you really will need

• Light and Sturdy Backpack –   It took me a while to shop for the right backpack. I started with the North Face Terra 45L and downsized to the North Face Mejor which is only 35L. The material is durable but very light. It was designed for women so it really hugs the female form. If you’re going to invest on one thing for your trip, make it your backpack because you’re sure to be traveling together for years to come. A lot of women love to travel with wheeled luggage.I’ve done this myself in some parts of Asia like South Korea and Hong Kong. It works really well when you’re just going to cities. But if you plan to visit rural areas where they don’t have a lot of paved roads, or if you plan to take a lot of public transportation on your trip, it’s better to use a backpack.

 For more tips, please read TFG’s Step by Step Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Backpack .

• Toilet paper –   This may come as a shock to you, but most toilets in Southeast Asia won’t have any toilet paper . Don’t ask me why but just make sure you have at least one roll when you’re packing for Southeast Asia.

• Sarong/ Large scarf – The sarong will be your lifesaver in Southeast Asia. It’s such a versatile, lightweight and multi purpose item and you can buy it in most markets in the region. You can use it as a scarf, skirt, dress, head cover, shawl, coverup (for getting dressed in public places like the beach) and even a towel.

Check out these 8 Ways to Use a Beach Sarong Wrap !

• Sunblock –   You’ll be in the tropics so the sun is much harsher here. Protect your skin by putting on lots of sun block every day. If you’re not convinced, I have one word for you: wrinkles! You can get sunscreen in most places usually at the pharmacy or grocery. If you prefer a brand from back home, you won’t need more than a bottle. And if you’re planning to bring it with you on your carry on when you fly, make sure it’s 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container. Try to always have some on you because they tend to be expensive when you have to buy them at your beach destination.

• Swimwear –   You will be visiting some of the most beautiful beaches in the world so you need at least one swimsuit; two or three pairs if you absolutely insist. I prefer to store them separately in ziplock bags . Do mind the norms in the places you’re visiting. Some rural areas encourage modesty and the locals may frown on too much skin exposure. You may have to wear a t-shirt and shorts on the beach in less touristy areas. I know it seems strange, but it’s better not to draw too much attention in certain places.
• Bug spray –   As you start packing for Southeast Asia keep in mind that there will be a lot of bugs so come prepared . If you prefer a certain brand, bring some from home. But it’s pretty easy and affordable to buy bug sprays  where you’re going. Some hostels and restaurants may even have them available for guests. Don’t forget the 100ml rule for liquids in your carry on!
• Medication –   If you need any special medication, make sure to take them with you in the right quantity before your trip. It may be problematic to get the exact brand or dosage in Southeast Asia.

• A week’s worth of clothing and underwear –   This may be the toughest challenge yet. You may want to bring your entire wardrobe when you’re packing for Southeast Asia. But here’s my advice: whether your trip is 2 weeks or 2 months, just carry enough clothes to last a week. What I usually do is bring detergent liquid and wash my clothes every few days. I also bring basic outfits that are multi-wear or versatile so I can easily mix and match. Throw in a colorful scarf and some accessories from the local shops to spruce up your outfit. And you’re set to travel in style! And don’t worry, there’s a lot of laundromats everywhere and they usually charge only 1 USD for every kilo of clothing- you’re safe!Find out why ten is the magic number when it comes to travel underwear .

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

• Fanny pack –   I know, it really isn’t fashionable. I hated bringing a fanny pack with me when I traveled, especially when I want to wear a dress. But it’s really essential in keeping your cash, documents and valuables safe- especially if you actually wear it!

Read more tips about how to keep your passport safe while traveling .

• Poncho and Backpack Rain Cover –   It rains a lot in Southeast Asia especially if you’re visiting during the monsoon months which runs roughly between June and October in most countries in the region. Always have a lightweight, waterproof poncho and rain cover for your backpack. There’s no need to bring an umbrella and certain airports prohibit them anyway. Always be prepared when traveling during the monsoon season as the weather can change with little warning. Carry rain gear, keep flexible travel plans, and place your important documents in a waterproof pack or even just a ziplock to protect them from the water.

• The Right Footwear – When you’re packing for Southeast Asia resist to overpack shoes at all costs. You’ll definitely need a pair of flip flops- you’ll use them practically everywhere. But will you need shoes? It depends on where you go and what you want to do. If you want to do some hiking or mountain climbing, you’re better off bringing some boots or lightweight trainers. If you’re planning to spend more time on the beach, flip flops are okay but still have a pair of comfortable slip on shoes like espadrilles for the plane ride. If you’re going to be in the city, it’s always great to have some shoes or sandals that you can also use at a party or formal event.

Read this and this post to find out out favorite shoes for Southeast Asia!

✓   To read a book on an overnight bus. ✓  To check what’s making that weird noise outside your hut. ✓  To find your way back to your hostel after a few drinks with your couch surfing buddies. ✓  To get to your bed at the dorm when you arrive at 4 AM. If you find more scenarios, let me know!

Learn more about why a travel headlamp is one of our top five essentials for everywhere

What you might  need

• Contact lenses/solution –   You can easily find an eye doctor or optical shop in most cities. But if you need specific lenses, they may not have it available. Always have enough lenses and contact lens solution with you because they are not easily available in rural areas.
• Hiking boots –   If you plan to do a lot of hiking, make sure your feet are covered. I’ve tried to do some hikes on flip flops myself and found myself wishing I had some proper boots with ankle support instead. If you don’t want to carry a heavy pair of hiking boots everywhere, consider bringing some running or cross training shoes.

✓ if you’re going to the mountains and the weather gets colder ✓ if you’re planning to attend some events where you can’t the backpacker uniform of shorts, a tank top or flip flops ✓ if you may need to go inside a government office for visa purposes. Many of them (especially in Manila) require you to actually wear a shirt with sleeves, pants and shoes before you can enter. For real.

A more lightweight alternative would be a pair of leggings .

• Cold weather clothes –   During the monsoon, you’ll need at least a raincoat or a poncho. If you’re planning to climb a mountain or even a high altitude area, it’s best to have thermals, a coat, pants, gloves, and a hat. Otherwise, have at least a sweater or light jacket for the plane ride.
• Book/Kindle –   You will have a lot of time to read whether you’re sitting on a bus or on the beach. I’m more of the book type as I just love the smell and feel of a good book and no digital device comes close. But I limit myself to 1 book and simply trade that at a used bookshop or at the hostel I’m staying next.

What you seriously don’t need:

✓   Photocopy special sections like maps or places to stay, roll up the pages and strap them to your backpack. You can discard the pages you don’t need along the way. ✓ Bring the kindle or digital version of the guidebook. ✓ Just don’t bring the guide at all. Be adventurous and rely on other people’s recommendation. It will make your trip so much more interesting!

• Sleeping bag –   When packing for Southeast Asia the first time I brought a sleeping bag. It was an old model, very thick and quite heavy but comfortable. I never got the chance to use it. On the last day of our trip, I decided to throw it into a garbage bin before our flight. We missed our flight and had to spend the night at the airport. I had to sleep on the cold floor with just my sarong on me. True story.But if you don’t plan to miss any flights yourself, or won’t be doing any camping, you really don’t need a sleeping bag. There are mattresses everywhere. If you do bring a sleeping bag, try to invest in something super light and compact or choose a  sleeping bag liner instead!
• Jewelry –   Having any kind of unnecessary valuables will be a burden on your trip. The rule is to keep anything you don’t want to lose (like your grandma’s heirloom brooch) at home. It’s best to just buy trinkets at the destinations you’ll be visiting. You can wear them as you travel and they make for great souvenirs to take back home.
• Too much Toiletries/Feminine products –   Stick to the basics and bring multi use products like coconut oil which can be a moisturizer for your skin and hair. You will find feminine products in most places so there’s no need to stock up on them. If you do plan to go off the map, you may want to bring as much tampons as those may not be readily available in certain places in Indonesia .

Find out how to travel size toiletries  here .

• Hairdryer/Curling/straightening iron –   You may think you need it, but you seriously don’t. But what about your bangs? They will grow, so don’t worry. Plus you may not even notice that you’re having a bad hair day when you’re having so much fun!
• Too much makeup –   This one is very tricky. Will you need make up? It totally depends on you. But if you want to travel light when packing for Southeast Asia, just go for the basics: tinted moisturizer, natural looking blush (I prefer to use a cream or liquid because the humidity tends to make any powder based make up look to caked or fake) and lip balm. If you’re planning to go to some parties, maybe add dark lipstick and a tube of mascara to your beauty arsenal. But you really won’t need more than that. The secret? A great tan, some sunshine and a big smile- and that’s all you really need to look gorgeous!

How to still look fashionable with less

• Pack some colorful scarves to accentuate your look. This can transform even the simplest outfit and make you stand out. You can also wear them around your neck, on your head, over your shoulders or wrapped around your waist- so many possibilities!
• Accessorize with some cheap jewelry and trinkets from your travels.
• Bring a lot of basics and a few unique, colorful pieces to mix and match.
• Pack multi-wear items like a sarong, or a dress you can wear in several ways. You can also wear a shirt over a dress to make it a skirt. A long sleeved shirt can also be a beach cover up.
• Take the Ultimate Girl Thing with you. Whether it’s a dress you absolutely love or a skirt that simply makes you feel sexy. Bring some lace underwear or form hugging jeans if you want. When you’re traveling for a long time, you tend to blend into a sea of backpackers. And there will be days when you actually want to feel like the sexy, gorgeous woman that you are. And that’s when you need the UGT.

 Southeast Asia Travel Outfit Ideas

Are you planning a trip to Southeast Asia and don’t know where to start? Get the ebook “Where Should I Go in Southeast Asia?” and start planning your adventure! Share your own tips below!

For more tips on packing for Southeast Asia, please read:

• Southeast Asia Packing List
• The Ultimate Jungle Trekking Gear Packing List
• Thailand Packing List – Beaches and Islands
• The Ultimate Backpacking Southeast Asia Packing List
• 8 Budget Travel Packing Essentials

Hope you liked this post on packing for Southeast Asia with 7 kilograms or less. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Lois traveled all over Southeast Asia for 6 months across 9 countries with only about 2,500 USD. She is the co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of We Are Sole Sisters .

10 Comments

This is VERY helpful. I’m currently planning a trip to South Korea and Japan for the fall of 2024. The clothing list is especially helpful. I recently traveled carry on only to Portugal. I didn’t over pack. But- I had more nicer tops than necessary and not enough bottoms! However, my planning paid off as I did have enough outfits for the trip. My problem is needing to carry enough meds and supplements, plus liquid prescriptions and a Cpap machine in addition to my usual liquids and toiletries. Even with minimal makeup or jewelry, my “stuff” far outweighed my clothing in weight and space! I’m all for a backpack but then I cannot rest the cpap case on a luggage handle! Still I may try it.

Thank you for very helpful tips!

Happy to help. Have an amazing time on your travels Kay!

Thank you for all of the tips. U will be traveling for 3 weeks and wondered how I would meet the luggage requirements and have enough for 3 weeks. Going to try your tips now. Wish me luck!

Wonderful news Michelle! Happy to help!

Although menstrual products are available throughout Southeast Asia, it might be worth noting that if you particularly want tampons they may be much harder to find. In Malaysia, and possibly many other regional countries, sanitary napkins exist but tampons do not.

I have found that too Anne! There are products available but it may be worth stocking up on tampons for certain areas!

I love you.

Just one question though. Would I even be able to bring a backpacking backpack weighing less than 7kg onto a plane as a carry on in the first place? I mean, the sheer size of the backpacking backpack is definitely going to be bigger than the 150cm(ish) allowance already. Unless, I just squish it? But, I should be able to though I guess since there would be no point in carrying less than 7kgs to go backpacking with. Other than having a lighter load, of course. But, please just let me know. Just to be sure 🙂 Thanks!

Hi Jason! That is definitely a good question as it seems so many backpacks and suitcases weigh a ton! There are definitely lightweight carryon backpacks – I like the Osprey Farpoint for this: https://travelfashiongirl.com/farpoint-osprey-packs-the-best-travel-backpacks/ You can also use 30-35L laptop bags or fitness bags too.

Great info! This is going to come in handy on my upcoming trip for sure. I was wondering though…some of the items in the first picture aren’t mentioned anywhere else in the post. Can you comment on how necessary they might be?

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

17 Top Asia Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Asia is a vast and fascinating continent, home to some of the world’s oldest and most unique cultures. Depending on where you’re headed and how long you’re staying, it can be tricky to know what to pack for a destination with so many different things to do and see! 

We’ve put together this Asia Packing List to help you navigate your way through this incredibly beautiful and diverse continent more easily. Our list includes sections on  what to wear in Asia , what NOT to bring, and answers to all your Asia FAQs.

What to Pack for Asia – 17 Essentials

1. asia power adapter.

You’ll have a hard time plugging in your electronics in Asia without a reliable power adapter! Be prepared as you travel from country to country by bringing an adapter that works all over. This one is awesome because it works in over 100 countries and comes with a lifetime warranty guarantee!

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick Sized Portable Charger

A lipstick-size portable charger will be a real lifesaver throughout your travels in Asia. The last thing you want is for your smartphone or camera to run out of battery at an inconvenient time. Be prepared by tossing this handy backup battery in your purse or daypack and use it to recharge your devices as needed.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is super useful, and can really be a lifesaver when you’re traveling in Asia. It’ll protect you against hackers if you connect to WiFi in public places and it can be used to get around paywalls on popular news sites. A VPN will also allow you to access websites from home if information is censored in the host country.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Neck Wallet

Keep your most important belongings organized and secure by wearing them in this handy neck wallet tucked safely beneath your shirt. Keep your smartphone, passport, credit cards, cash, and more out of reach from pickpockets by using this convenient neck wallet when you visit crowded and touristy areas.

5. Jet Lag Relief

Depending on where you’re coming from, Asia can be a long way from home! When you’re crossing endless time zones, you won’t want to lose your first day of vacation. Prepare for and combat the unpleasant symptoms of jet lag with these homeopathic jet lag relief pills. We swear by them!

6. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are every savvy traveler’s must-have item. They’ll help you avoid overpacking and will keep you organized. This set comes in different sizes, so you can keep your similar items together in their own cubes. They also come with cases specifically for shoes and laundry!

7. Pashmina Shawl

A pashmina shawl will come in handy more than you think in Asia. Whether you want to enter a temple or holy place, are in the mood to spice up your outfit, or want to keep warm on a chilly evening, you’ll have endless occasions to use a lightweight shawl or wrap.

8. Windproof Travel Umbrella

It is likely to rain AT LEAST once during your trip to Asia, so come prepared! This windproof travel umbrella is perfect to toss into your daypack because it packs down small but extends wide when open to cover up to two people. Trust us, you’ll be glad you remembered an umbrella!

9. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal will almost definitely come in handy during your visit to Asia. The continent is filled with unique spices and cuisine, and you’ll surely want to try it all! If you eat or drink something that doesn’t sit quite right, however, be sure to take these activated charcoal pills to expel the toxins in your body and keep you feeling healthy.

10. Electrolytes

I can’t stress enough the importance of bringing along electrolytes for your trip to Asia. When you’re exploring in the hot sun all day, you’ll definitely need to replenish the vitamins your body has lost. Electrolytes will also help in the case of food poisoning and will even help cure a hangover!

11. Sturdy Sandals

Sturdy sandals will likely be your footwear preference during your time spent in Asia. Weather throughout the continent tends to stay mild during the entire year, and you’ll want sturdy, breathable shoes like these that will be comfortable to wear while you’re out and about exploring.

12. Asia Travel Insurance

Getting Asia travel insurance before you leave for your trip is of the utmost importance. You’ll be far from home and you never know what can go wrong, so it’s best to make sure you’re covered in case of emergency. We never travel without a plan from TravelInsurance.com . They make it easy to compare policies from top companies to find the best one for us and our travel plans.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

13. Affordable Underwater Camera

In Asia, you’ll have lots of opportunities to partake in watersports and activities, and you’ll definitely want a reliable underwater camera to capture all your favorite memories! This one is super affordable, plus it’s compact and durable which is perfect for travel.

14. Daypack

A daypack will come in handy every day of your trip in Asia. Use it for your daytime activities and excursions to carry everything you need with you while leaving the rest of your belongings safely in your accommodation. This one’s large enough to carry your water bottle, umbrella, snacks, change of clothes, and more!

15. Long Skirt

A long skirt is a great way to withstand the heat in Asia, plus it will help you to remain modest when entering temples or holy sites throughout the region. This one is lightweight and breezy and will easily fit in your luggage or daypack to throw on quickly over your shorts if need be.

16. LifeStraw Water Bottle

You’ll need to stay hydrated during your trip to Asia, and there’s no better way to do that than by bringing along a handy reusable water bottle. This one has a built-in filter to ensure the water you’re drinking is safe and clean. It’s also a great alternative to spending tons of money on single-use plastic water bottles.

17. Swimsuit Cover Up

Don’t forget to pack a trendy swimsuit cover up for your trip! You’re likely to spend a lot of time in and out of the water in Asia, so be prepared to throw this on over your suit after a dip to easily move on to your next activity.

Other Asia packing list items not to forget

• Quick Dry Travel Towel
• Noise Cancelling Headphonesk
• Over the Counter Medications
• Passport Photos
• Hard Copies of Vital Documents
• ATM and Credit Cards without International
• Travel Neck Pillow
• Travel Sheet
• Protein Bars
• Insect Repellent
• Deodorant Wipes
• Motion Sickness Relief
• Contact Solution
• Other Asia packing lists you may like:
• Annapurna |
• Everest Base Camp |
• Hong Kong |
• Indonesia |
• New Delhi |
• Philippines |
• Singapore |
• South Korea |
• Southeast Asia |
• Sri Lanka |

What to Wear in Asia

Women will want to dress for the weather and the season in Asia, all while keeping in mind cultural norms and customs, which may require women to cover their shoulders and knees when entering temples and holy sites. Regardless of the season, women traveling in Asia will want to bring a good pair of sturdy shoes that are well broken in, as you’re sure to do a ton of walking and exploring! What Should MEN Wear to Asia?– (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Asia

Most Asian countries only have two seasons, the wet season and the dry season. Due to Asia’s proximity to the equator, most of the continent is mild to hot during the entire year. You’ll want to be prepared for a bit of rain regardless of when you visit, so don’t forget a rain jacket and an umbrella! Also be sure to bring a pair of sturdy, breathable sandals so you’ll be ready to do plenty of walking and exploring.

WET SEASON – June, July, August, September, October:

It’s no surprise that during Asia’s wet season you can expect an abundance of rain! This is the off-season for tourists and temperatures are warm and humid. Don’t completely write off travel during this period, as it typically tends to rain heavily for a few hours at specific times every day, leaving the rest of the day open to enjoy.

DRY SEASON – November, December, January, February, March, April, May :

Asia experiences more tourism during the dry season as temperatures tend to be a bit cooler and there is less rain. Don’t expect the weather to get too cold, though, unless you’re headed into a particularly mountainous or high altitude region.

Beaches – Asia is home to some of the world’s best beaches. Be sure to bring a swimsuit, cover-up, flip flops, and plenty of sun protection.

Exploring Cities – Asian cities are super unique and there is definitely tons to explore. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and breezy clothes that can withstand the heat. Don’t forget a daypack so you can carry your rain gear and plenty of water, too!

Temples – You’re bound to encounter a wide variety of temples during your time in Asia. Be sure to dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees, and wear shoes that can easily be slipped off and tossed in your daypack or left outside, as many temples will require.

Nightlife – Asia is home to some of the craziest and most lively nightlife in the world! Be sure to dress for the weather and the venue on your nights out. Some higher-end clubs and bars won’t allow entrance to men who aren’t wearing long pants, a collared shirt, and closed-toe shoes, so prepare to look nice depending on where you’re headed.

What NOT to bring to Asia

1. don’t pack a hairdryer.

The humidity in Asia is such that any hair drying you do will quickly be reversed. Plus, you run the risk of ruining your devices because the voltage in Asia will be different than what your dryer can handle, and voltage adapters rarely work.

2. DON’T BRING expensive valuables

Don’t risk your expensive jewelry or electronics getting lost or stolen during your trip to Asia. Only bring the items that you absolutely need and leave the rest safe at home!

3. DON’T TAKE a winter coat

Unless you’re planning a trekking trip up into the mountains, you will likely have no need for a full winter coat during your visit to Asia. Opt for layers instead, which are versatile and will be much more useful for you.

4. DON’T PACK too much stuff

There’s so much to do and see in Asia, and you’ll likely be exploring many different locations. Pack as light as possible so you can easily move from place to place without worrying about overstuffed, heavy luggage.

5. DON’T BRING full-size toiletries

One of the best ways to get around the continent is by flight. Avoid having to dump out full-size liquids as you fly from place to place by using travel-size toiletries that can easily be refilled or replaced.

6. DON’T TAKE a regular towel

A regular towel is bulky, heavy, and takes forever to dry. Instead, opt for a lightweight, compact  quick dry towel  which will make your life as a traveler so much easier!

FAQs about Asia travel

1. do i need a visa to travel to asia.

Depending on where you’re headed, you will need to check ahead of time whether or not you’ll need a visa to enter the country. Some countries will allow you to purchase your visa at the airport upon arrival but others may require you to have a visa before, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get what you need before you go.

2. What’s the best way to get around Asia?

Busses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Asia and they go nearly everywhere. However, distances are far and you’ll be putting yourself at risk for traffic accidents and other safety hazards if you go this route. Flights are typically inexpensive and are the fastest and safest way to get around the continent.

3. Is Asia expensive?

Many Asian countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, tend to be very cheap, especially compared to the United States. However, places like Shanghai and Singapore are more expensive, so you’ll need to budget for your specific destination before you leave.

4. Is Asia safe?

Parts of Asia are safer than others, and different threats affect different regions of the continent. In Southeast Asia, the biggest risk factors tend to be petty theft, pickpocketing, and traffic accidents, while other parts of Asia are hotbeds for terrorism. Do your research before you go to be aware of the precautions you should take for your destination.

The Best Luggage for International Travel

Experts swear by these top-tested suitcases for traveling abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

As you start planning your next trip to a different country by looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience ensuring you have the best luggage brand by your side. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which luggage is truly worth it. That's why at the Good Housekeeping Institute , I and my fellow Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab analysts put luggage to the test to determine which suitcases you should invest in. We've evaluated more than 100 pieces of luggage from popular brands in the Lab for properties like packability, durability and ease of use. We also share luggage with consumer testers who are able to try it out on their own getaways and provide real-user feedback about their experiences. Whether you're looking for a large checked bag for a long trip overseas, a quality carry-on for a shorter stay or a travel backpack for easy toting, we've found an option for nearly every traveler.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

July Checked Luggage

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, 135L

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Luka Duffel

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

Product Reviews

HOKA vs. Brooks: Which Is Better?

Raincoats for Women, Come Drizzle or Downpour

The Best Electric Blankets

The Top Tools for Making Sourdough

The 7 Best Massage Chairs

The Best Tea Brands

The Best Breast Pumps

The Best Cat Carriers

The Best Ankle Braces

The Best Washing Machines of 2024

The Best Sheets for Adjustable Beds

The Best Sateen Sheets

The Best Luggage for International Travel in 2024

Luggage for international travel needs to fit tighter size restrictions and deliver durability you can rely on when you’re far from home.

Traveling internationally demands a lot from luggage. Since you’ll be living out of your suitcase, you want something that packs in convenient features and durable construction that will stand up to abuse.

I’ve traveled across four continents and have had to toss my luggage on top of packed buses and drag it miles over cobblestone streets. Over the years I’ve learned a lot about what makes a suitcase work well for traveling internationally.

So what makes a piece of luggage ready for international travel? The most important distinction is that international airlines have tighter restrictions for carry-on size than domestic flights. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll want to make sure your carry-on is smaller than 21” so you don’t have to worry about fitting within limits.

This guide will highlight the best carry-on bags that fit within international restrictions as well as some of the best checked luggage for international flights.

• Our Top Picks
• Best Luggage for International Travel Overall: Briggs & Riley Baseline Global 21”
• Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel: July Carry-On Light
• Best Luggage Set for International Travel: Samsonite Novaire Set
• Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel: LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On 20”
• Best Checked Luggage for International Travel: Travelpro Roundtrip
• Best Large Luggage for International Travel: Eagle Creek Expanse
• Best Durable Luggage for International Travel: Osprey Ozone
• Best Medium Luggage for International Travel: Monos Check-In Medium
• Best Soft Luggage for International Travel: Travelpro Maxlite 5 International
• Best Hardside Luggage for International Travel: Briggs & Riley Sympatico International

Briggs & Riley Baseline Global 21” : Best Luggage for International Travel Overall

Briggs & Riley is one of the most respected luggage brands out there. Flight crews and frequent travelers around the world trust them to build the highest-quality and longest-lasting luggage available.

Unlike most manufacturers who offer at best a limited lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects, Briggs & Riley has a true lifetime guarantee. If your suitcase is ever damaged, they will repair or replace it no questions.

Good international luggage needs to meet carry-on size restrictions while still offering lots of packing room. You also want to look for features that will help you stay organized while you’re traveling.

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Global 21” is a fantastic choice for overseas trips. It combines impressive durability, thoughtful features, and unmatched versatility, making this suitcase an easy choice for anyone traveling abroad.

Two-wheeled rolling luggage is more durable than spinner wheels. You can drag this suitcase over cobblestones or other rough surfaces without worry.

You get a large external pocket that can fit a laptop, hanging garment storage for suits and dresses, compression straps, and an expandable main compartment if you need more space. The array of interior and exterior pockets is extensive and well-thought-out. All these features make this carry-on incredibly versatile and organized.

While the price is high, if you’re looking for the best quality out there and the peace of mind that comes with a lifetime guarantee, you can’t go wrong with the Briggs & Riley Baseline.

• Technical Specs

July Carry-On Light : Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel

Launched in 2018, July is a startup travel brand based in Australia that is dedicated to simplifying and improving the travel experience with innovative designs and quality products. Though they’re new to the market, they have quickly become a leader in the industry, thanks to their commitment to solving problems in the luggage industry.

If you’re traveling a lot, it’s definitely worth looking for lightweight luggage that won’t weigh you down. A suitcase that’s under five pounds will be easier to maneuver through the airport and lift into overhead bins. You don’t want to compromise on durability and features though.

The July Carry-On Light is the perfect solution for anyone looking to drop a few pounds from their travel gear. At 3.9 lbs, this is the lightest carry-on case on the market!

This ultralight suitcase manages to cut weight without cutting corners on build quality. It has a sturdy polycarbonate shell, a well-engineered aluminum handle, and July’s bomber double spinner wheels. You can count on this case to stand up to some abuse.

The closure uses YKK zippers and has an integrated TSA-approved lock. This ensures your suitcase is secure during travel.

Organization is simple but effective, with a zippered divider and interior pockets. If you want the easy access of exterior pockets or more advanced organization, you’ll probably want to look elsewhere.

If you’re looking for the lightest luggage on the market to lighten your load while traveling, I highly recommend you take a look at the July Carry-On Light.

Want to learn more about this brand? Read our full July luggage review for an in-depth look at their products.

Samsonite Novaire Set : Best Luggage Set for International Travel

Samsonite luggage is probably the most well-known brand. They’ve been selling luggage for over a century and have built a reputation on providing high-value suitcases for every budget.

If you are traveling with a family or are just looking to buy both checked and carry-on luggage, it’s definitely worth trying to buy a luggage set. You’ll get matching suitcases that work together, and you’ll save money over buying pieces individually.

The best luggage sets will keep you ready for everything. With a carry-on and checked bags you’ll be prepped for anything from weekend beach trips to long-haul international adventures.

The Samsonite Novaire Set is one of the best luggage sets out there and is a perfect choice for international travel. It includes a carry-on that is sized for international restrictions and a large 29” checked case that is ready for trips where you have to haul a lot of gear.

Both suitcases are made with durable Makrolon polycarbonate hardshells with scratch-resistant texture and reinforced corners. These cases will take a beating and keep looking good over the long term.

The expandable luggage design gives you the option to add a few inches of packing space. This increases the versatility of the set so you’re ready for trips with different packing requirements.

The Samsonite Novaire Set is a fantastic combination that is well-built, affordable, and ready for anything. On a bit of a budget? Our list of the best cheap luggage sets can help you find something more affordable. You can also check out our list of the best hardside luggage sets .

LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On 20” : Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel

LEVEL8 is a modern luggage brand that emphasizes functional, minimalist designs that are intended to streamline the travel experience. They specifically make some of the best carry-on luggage that is stylish, simple, and well-built.

A good carry-on suitcase for an international trip needs to be spacious enough to carry all your belongings for longer trips while fitting within international size restrictions for carry-ons.

The LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On is a sleek and stylish hardshell case that’s designed to fit carry-on size restrictions for airlines all over the world. It stands out with innovative features, streamlined design, and high-quality construction.

This carry-on case is built with Makrolon polycarbonate and has a TSA-approved lock. You can be sure your belongings are protected and secure while traveling.

Unlike most hard-sided luggage, this case has a large external pocket that can fit a 15.6” laptop. This quick-opening zipperless pocket is fantastic for keeping electronics or other items easily accessible

If you’re looking for a sturdy, streamlined hardshell carry-on suitcase for international use, the LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On is a fantastic choice.

Looking for something a bit cheaper? Check out our list of the best affordable carry-on luggage .

Travelpro Roundtrip : Best Checked Luggage for International Travel

Travelpro was started to make luggage specifically for flight crews. With pilots, flight attendants, and other pros trusting their luggage, you can be sure they are doing something right.

Travelpro has been at the forefront of luggage innovation for decades. Their founder invented the first upright rolling suitcase, and they continually seek new improvements in designs and materials.

The best checked luggage for traveling internationally needs to be strong enough to stand up to frequent flight transfers across the globe. An expandable design is also a plus so it can adapt to your needs over different trips.

The Travelpro Roundtrip combines all of Travelpro’s luggage expertise into a highly-functional and well-built check-in suitcase that’s ready for long international trips.

The Roundtrip has a durable polycarbonate shell with built-in corner guards. Corners are usually the first thing to break on hardshell suitcases, so this is a fantastic design that helps this suitcase endure hard hits and make it to the baggage claim undamaged.

This case uses Travelpro’s double spinner wheels and a lightweight extendable handle. It is exceptionally smooth rolling and easy to maneuver through the airport.

If you’re going on an extended trip and need more room than just a carry-on, the Travelpro Roundtrip is a fantastic choice for a checked bag.

Eagle Creek Expanse : Best Large Luggage for International Travel

Eagle Creek builds luggage for adventurous folks who are heading far from the beaten path and need equipment that’s rugged and well-designed. Their No Matter What Warranty shows that they stand behind their products.

For some trips, you just need a lot of space. Whether you’re hauling climbing gear to Morocco or packing for a family, a single massive piece of luggage often makes more sense than multiple smaller bags.

The Eagle Creek Expanse is a massive rolling bag with rugged durability, heavy-duty wheels, and cavernous space. It’s strong enough to haul heavy loads and stand up to abuse.

While it’s easy to assume hard-sided luggage is more durable because it has a rigid shell, that isn’t always the case. This soft-sided luggage is made of ultra high strength fabric that’s virtually impossible to tear. Unlike a hard case, it will never crack under impact.

The design is simple, with one massive main compartment, a small external pocket, and a mesh internal pocket on the lid. This gives you a lot of freedom to pack gear the way you want.

If you need a big checked bag that’s ready for anything, this is it.

Osprey Ozone : Best Durable Luggage for International Travel

Osprey is a Colorado-based outdoor gear brand that is best known for their innovative backpacking and hiking packs . You may not know that they also build capable and durable travel luggage.

Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee is legendary within the outdoor community. You can send in any product for any reason to be repaired or replaced for free.

I really respect companies that stand behind their products, and Osprey is one of the best. They also are committed to reducing their environmental impact by using recycled materials and sustainable processes.

The Osprey Ozone is a compact, lightweight carry-on that is built tough so you can take it around the globe without any worries of wear and tear. I love that this bag is really built for adventurous travelers, with no-nonsense features, organization, and construction.

This bag is built with a highly-engineered aluminum frame, durable recycled nylon fabrics, burly YKK zippers, and oversized wheels. You can count on it to stand up to the abuse of global travel.

If you’re looking for an international carry-on that will last forever, the Osprey Ozone is built to handle a beating. If you ever do manage to break it, Osprey will repair it for you.

Monos Check-In Medium : Best Medium Luggage for International Travel

Monos is a luggage brand that emphasizes minimalist designs that give you everything you need without any unnecessary bells and whistles. They are also committed to quality and have some of the best durability and life testing I’ve ever seen for luggage.

I am really impressed by the testing methods Monos has developed for their products. It really gives a lot of confidence that their suitcases will survive hard use.

The perfect medium check-in bag gives you ample room to pack for longer trips without becoming cumbersome when maneuvering through the airport.

The Monos Check-In Medium is an incredibly well-built 26” suitcase with durable construction, ultra-smooth spinner wheels, and extremely well-thought-out details.

Interior organization is phenomenal in this suitcase. It has a large zippered divider, a plethora of zippered interior pockets, compression straps, and includes two shoe bags. Every detail is well-configured to make it easy to stay organized and neat while traveling.

If you need more space while traveling but don’t want to be weighed down by an overly-bulky case, the Monos Check-In Medium is a fantastic choice.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 International : Best Soft Luggage for International Travel

This is the second Travelpro luggage product on this list, and it’s because they make seriously capable and well-designed products. Their soft-sided luggage is especially good, with sturdy construction and fantastic organization features.

Soft-sided luggage excels in organization, accessibility, and lighter weight. Convenient external pockets can make it very easy to access items while traveling. Having a single large compartment can make packing much easier than the two-sided clamshell design of hard luggage.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 International is a lightweight soft-sided carry-on that combines thoughtful design, rugged construction, and an affordable price into a fantastic carry-on for international trips. It fits size restrictions for almost any airline in the world, but still has a surprising amount of space inside.

The body of the bag is built with a high-denier polyester fabric with a water-resistant coating. This material is highly durable and protects your belongings from rain or splashes.

This rollaboard suitcase uses sturdy wheels with rigorously-tested steel ball bearings. The best rolling carry-on luggage will always be more durable than any fancy spinner case. You can expect this bag to be smooth-rolling for a lifetime of travel, even if you’re pulling it over cobblestones or other rough surfaces.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico International : Best Hardside Luggage for International Travel

We’ll wrap up this list with another suitcase from Briggs & Riley. This brand builds some of the best quality luggage on the market, and their unbeatable warranty ensures that when you buy one of their suitcases, it’s going to last you a lifetime.

It is common nowadays for manufacturers to skimp on materials, construction, and quality testing. It’s refreshing that Briggs and Riley changes that by building suitcases that can be an investment. Their products aren’t cheap, but I think it’s worth it for frequent flyers.

Hardside luggage has the advantage of being more secure and protective for expensive or fragile items. Hard luggage for traveling internationally needs to maximize those advantages with a highly durable shell that will survive the abuse of longer trips.

The Briggs & Riley Sympatico International is a stylish, spacious, and durable hardside carry-on that is compact enough for international airline restrictions.

This case has a durable polycarbonate shell, YKK zippers, and an aircraft-grade aluminum telescopic handle. This well-built suitcase will last a long time, and if you ever manage to break it, Briggs & Riley will repair or replace it for free.

If you are frequently traveling internationally and are willing to invest in a hardside suitcase that will last a lifetime, I highly recommend the Briggs & Riley Sympatico.

How to Choose the Best Luggage for International Travel

What size luggage should you buy.

The biggest difference between luggage for international and domestic trips is the carry-on luggage size restrictions. Most international airlines limit the length of any carry-on to 21.5”. Many manufacturers make luggage slightly larger than that for domestic flights, so double-check suitcase dimensions before purchasing. Knowing how to measure luggage can be helpful here.

For checked luggage, size restrictions are less of an issue on international airlines. Still, wherever possible I’d recommend going a bit smaller. Packing light will simplify your trip and let you focus more on the experience of traveling rather than hauling around massive overstuffed suitcases.

Hard vs Soft-Sided Luggage

Another major decision when shopping for luggage is whether to buy a hard or soft suitcase . Soft luggage used to be much more common, but hardshell cases are gaining in popularity, and with advances like durable yet lightweight polycarbonate shells, they are better than ever.

Picking between hard and soft-sided luggage is mainly up to personal preference, but if you’re on the fence, there are some key factors that can help you decide.

Soft-Sided Luggage Advantages

• Soft luggage is usually more lightweight .
• You will get more options for external zipper pockets .
• Soft luggage is more flexible for packing and cramming into the overhead bin.
• If you want 2-wheeled luggage , a soft suitcase is your only option.

Hard-Sided Luggage Advantages

• Hard luggage is more protective .
• When combined with a TSA-approved lock, a hard suitcase is more secure .
• Some people prefer the streamlined style of hardshell cases.

International Travel Luggage Accessories

Monos travel folio.

When traveling internationally, keeping passports, travel documents, and electronics together in one place can relieve a lot of anxiety. I know one of my biggest fears is losing my passport while abroad.

This zippered folio can act as your travel wallet/passport folio. With room for electronics, cards, and important travel documents, it’s a great way to keep all your most important items in one place.

REI Co-Op Flash 18 Pack

When you arrive at your destination, you’ll want a good travel daypack for heading out on shorter excursions. This compact, lightweight pack is perfect for everything from hiking to heading out around town.

This little backpack is easily packable, so it won’t take up space in your suitcase while traveling. You can easily use it as your personal item on the airplane or as a stuff sack for added organization inside your suitcase.

July Leather Luggage Tags

For a stylish addition to help identify your luggage in the airport or at the baggage claim, check out these luggage tags that you can personalize to your liking.

This luggage tag is made of full-grain leather and attaches easily to a handle on your suitcase.

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

It’s easy for the main compartment of your suitcase to become a disorganized, jumbled mess. These zippered packing cubes are a great solution for taming the chaos.

Built of a lightweight fabric, these packing cubes have a mesh front panel that lets you easily see what’s inside.

They come in an array of sizes to fit everything from socks to shirts. You can purchase either a four-pack or a six-pack.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

Here at TravelFreak, we want to give you the best information and recommendations to help you get out and explore the world. Our brand reputation is based on giving high-quality recommendations you can trust, so we take our product selection very seriously.

We don’t pick products just because they are popular or highly rated. All the members of our team are avid travelers and adventurers, and we base all of our recommendations on our personal experiences, observations, and struggles traveling the globe.

We’ve had a lot of chances to test luggage and to learn what works and what doesn’t. Every suitcase in this list is something we would personally use in our own travels.

I’ve hauled luggage up endless stone staircases in the lower Himalayas and have destroyed suitcase spinner wheels on the unforgiving cobblestone streets of Germany. The recommendations in this list are made based on my own real-world experience and the combined travel experience of the TravelFreak team.

Luggage for International Travel FAQs

What luggage bag is best for international travel.

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Global is a fantastic luggage choice for traveling internationally.

Is hard or soft luggage better for international travel?

Soft luggage is typically lighter and has more external pockets. Hard luggage is more protective.

What size luggage do I need for international travel?

International airlines limit carry-ons to 21.5” in height; luggage needs to be shorter than that.

How do I choose the best luggage for international travel?

A suitcase for international travel needs to be very durable and fit international carry-on size limits .

What is the best suitcase for traveling to Europe?

A 2-wheeled rollaboard will be better for the cobblestone streets you find in Europe.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search our latest articles, reviews and gear guides

• TravelFreak on Instagram
• TravelFreak on Facebook
• TravelFreak on Twitter
• TravelFreak on Pinterest

Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox.

Thank you for signing up!

Physical Address

College House, 2nd Floor, 17 King Edwards Road, London, HA4 7AE

We’ve Found The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling Around Asia!

• September 27, 2023

On the hunt for the best backpacks for traveling around Asia? Lucky you! Asia is one of the most fascinating continents on the planet.

My name is Matt, and I have been traveling the world since 1999. I have been through many backpacks over the years and love to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of globetrotters.

At Everyday Ape, we’ve researched and handpicked the best backpacks that offer durability, comfort, and intelligent organization. We’ve selected the very best backpacks, from the carry-on size Osprey Farpoint to the larger Osprey Atmos AG50.

Say goodbye to bulky luggage and hello to freedom with the perfect backpack by your side.

Key Takeaways

• Osprey Farpoint & Fairview, Nomatic 40L, Cotopaxi Allpa 42L, and Osprey Porter are the best travel backpacks for traveling Asia.
• We’ve grouped our favorite backpacks by size. The first list looks at carry-on compliant models, while the second section looks at larger backpacks that must be checked in for your flight.
• All the models on our list feature a lightweight design, comfortable harness, thoughtful organization, and durable materials.
• Consideration of travel needs, size, layout, weight, and structure are important factors when choosing a travel backpack for Asia.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Best Travel Backpack for Traveling in Asia

When choosing the right backpack for your trip, several important factors must be considered.

First, you’ll want to think about the size and layout of the backpack , ensuring it has enough space and compartments to accommodate your belongings.

Additionally, the backpack’s weight is crucial, as you’ll want to avoid unnecessary strain on your shoulders and back.

Size and Layout

To find the best travel backpack for your trip to Asia , consider the size and layout that will suit your needs. When backpacking through Asia, having the right backpack size is crucial.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best backpack:

• Ample Storage : Opt for a larger backpack that can accommodate all your travel essentials and souvenirs.
• Organizational Compartments : Look for a backpack with multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
• Comfortable Fit : Choose a travel backpack with adjustable straps and padding for a comfortable fit during long hikes and walks.
• Durable Construction : Ensure the backpack is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of backpacking.

By selecting a backpack with the right size and layout, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the Asian continent and beyond without any worries about carrying your belongings.

With so many backpacks on the market, you will surely find the perfect one for your travel adventures.

For a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience, you should prioritize weight and choose a travel backpack that’s lightweight yet durable.

When exploring Asia’s vibrant and diverse landscapes, you’ll want a backpack that won’t weigh you down. The Osprey Farpoint (for men) and Fairview (for women) are excellent options. These hiking-style backpacks feature a suitcase-style opening and a lightweight design, making them ideal for long journeys.

The Cotopaxi Allpa L Travel Pack and Nomatic 40L are also worth considering. These backpacks offer durability and comfort, with the bonus of intelligent organization.

If you’re looking for the best travel backpack, consider the price an important factor in your decision-making process. While splurging on a high-end backpack is tempting, plenty of affordable options offer incredible value.

Here are some considerations when choosing the best travel backpack:

• Explore budget-friendly models: By selecting a reasonably priced hiking backpack, you’ll have more money to spend on other essential items for your next adventure.
• Exploring backpack brands: Opting for a backpack at a lower price point allows you to try out different brands and discover hidden gems that suit your needs.
• Popular travel backpacks: Don’t be swayed by the hype surrounding expensive packs. There are affordable options that are just as popular and reliable for your backpacking journey.

You might also like to read another of our articles about why backpacks are so expensive .

Materials/Fabrics

When selecting the best travel backpack, you should always consider the durability and quality of the materials used. After all, you want a backpack that can withstand the adventures and challenges of your travel style.

Look for a backpack made from high-quality fabrics such as nylon or polyester, as these materials are known for their strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Additionally, check if the backpack has reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers, as these are crucial for the longevity of your new backpack.

Don’t forget to pay attention to the backpack straps as well. Look for padded and adjustable straps that provide comfort and support in carrying your backpack for long periods.

Weather Resistance

To ensure your belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather conditions, look for a travel backpack that’s both water-resistant and durable. When choosing a backpack for traveling to Asia, weather resistance is crucial to keep your gear safe and dry.

Here are four reasons why weather resistance should be a top priority:

• Peace of Mind: With a weather-resistant backpack, you can explore diverse landscapes without worrying about sudden rain showers or unexpected humidity.
• Freedom to Roam: A waterproof backpack gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path, knowing that your belongings are protected from moisture and other weather elements.
• Durability for Adventure: Whether hiking through lush rainforests or navigating bustling city streets, a weather-resistant backpack ensures that your gear can withstand the rigors of your Asian adventure.
• Versatility in Any Climate: Asia’s climate can vary greatly, from hot and humid to cold and rainy. A weather-resistant backpack allows you to seamlessly transition between different weather conditions, providing the flexibility you need for your travels.

Choose a backpack with superior weather resistance, allowing you to embrace the freedom and excitement of exploring Asia without worrying about the weather.

Best Carry-on Backpacks for Traveling Asia

Are you looking for the best carry-on travel backpacks for your trip to Asia? Consider the Osprey Farpoint 40L, NOMATIC 40L, Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, Peak Design Travel Line 45L, Thule Subterra 34L, and Osprey Fairview 40L (designed for women).

These backpacks offer the perfect balance between size, functionality, and comfort, making them ideal for navigating crowded cities, exploring remote areas, and quickly hopping on and off transportation.

Osprey Farpoint 40L

The Osprey Farpoint 40L is the perfect carry-on backpack for your travels in Asia. With its spacious main compartment and comfortable weight distribution, you’ll be free to explore Asia’s vibrant streets and bustling markets without feeling weighed down.

The adjustable torso fit ensures a customized and comfortable fit, while the padded shoulder straps and hip belt provide added support. The backpack’s compact design meets carry-on standards, making it convenient for travel. The well-padded laptop and tablet sleeves keep your electronics safe and secure.

However, it’s worth noting that the backpack lacks exterior storage options and a dedicated water bottle holder.

• Adjustable torso fit
• Comfortable weight distribution
• Well-padded laptop and tablet sleeves
• Compact design meets carry-on standards
• Not so many exterior storage options
• Lack of a dedicated water bottle holder

• Large panel zip access to main compartment with dual front compression straps – 40L total volume
• Meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines (22h x 14w x 9d in at 3.48 lbs.)
• Lockable zipper access to main compartment and quick access zippered pocket to padded laptop &…

NOMATIC 40L

You’ll love the NOMATIC 40L for your travels, as it offers functionality and convenience. With its 20+ innovative features, this versatile duffel/backpack is designed to make your journey hassle-free. The bag’s TSA-ready laptop sleeve ensures smooth airport security checks, while its spacious compartments allow you to stay organized.

The NOMATIC 40L is also built to withstand rough travel, ensuring durability throughout your adventures. Its stylish design adds a touch of sophistication to your travel gear, making you stand out wherever you go.

• Large capacity and easy to pack
• Well-organized with pockets for gadgets
• It is durable and fits under most airplane seats
• Bulky and feels heavy when fully packed
• Gets fingerprints easily

• TSA Ready Travel Laptop Backpack: This TSA compliant bag serves as a carry on backpack with its…
• Travel Smart: With 20+ innovative features, find your things easily with pockets designed…
• Versatile Everyday Bag: In need of a stylish business backpack, a functional backpack, or a…

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Pack all your essentials for your trip to Asia with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This versatile and durable backpack is perfect for those who desire freedom and convenience while exploring new destinations.

With its 35L capacity, you can easily fit all your clothes, toiletries, and even a pair of shoes. The large zippered mesh compartment on the right side and the subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side ensure you can keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. The padded laptop and tablet sleeve provide added protection for your electronic devices.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L isn’t only practical but also stylish, making you stand out while on your adventures.

• Comfortable and adjustable harness system
• Plenty of storage space and compartments
• Durable and high-quality materials
• Convenient and easy access to belongings
• Stylish and eye-catching design
• Difficulty remembering which pocket each zipper opens
• Potential for scratches from overhead bin storage
• Concerns about the durability of latches on straps

• Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system.
• Carry-on-compatible 35L capacity. TPU-coated 1000D polyester. 840D ballistic nylon paneling.
• Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. Large zippered mesh compartment on…

Peak Design Travel Line 45L

Carry all your essentials comfortably with the versatile and durable Peak Design Travel Line 45L backpack. This backpack is designed to meet international carry-on standards, giving you the freedom to move around without worrying about checking in your luggage. With its modular bag system, you can customize the bag to fit your needs, whether carrying camera equipment, tech gadgets, or clothing.

The dual expansion zips provide extra volume, while the dual side zippers allow instant access to your belongings. The quick tablet and laptop access ensures you can easily retrieve your devices during your journey. The backpack is also compatible with various packing tools, camera cubes, tech pouches, and wash kits, making it a versatile choice for different types of travelers.

• Carry-on compliant
• Expandable storage
• Multiple pockets for organization
• Robust straps for comfortable carrying
• Comfortable back support
• High-quality materials for durability
• Waterproof design
• Sleek and stylish
• Uncomfortable chest and waist straps
• Lack of interior straps for compacting clothes
• The bag itself is slightly heavy

• Modular Bag System by Peak Design, customise the internal carry options to match your requirements
• Meets international max carry-on standards in default 35L configuration. Dual expansion zips give…
• Dual side zippers for instant camera and item access. Full rear access via large dual zips.

Osprey Fairview 40L (Designed for Women)

Don’t forget to consider the Osprey Fairview 40L backpack when searching for the best carry-on option. This backpack is specifically designed for women, providing a comfortable and efficient way to carry all your essentials.

With its spacious main compartment, lockable sliders, and multiple pockets, you’ll have plenty of room to organize your belongings and keep them secure during your adventures. The Osprey Fairview 40L also has a removable daypack, making it even more convenient for day trips and excursions. Its adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap ensure a customized fit, allowing you to move freely and comfortably.

• Designed specifically for women
• Spacious main compartment with lockable sliders
• Removable daypack for added convenience
• Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap for a customized fit
• Not suitable for taller women (consider the Farpoint model)
• Some users may find it heavy when fully packed
• Limited color options are available

• Large panel zip access to main compartment
• Dual front compression straps

Thule Subterra 34L

You’ll love the Thule Subterra 34L backpack as your go-to carry-on option for your travels. This backpack offers you the freedom to explore with its practical features and ample storage space.

With the Thule Subterra 34L, you can easily manage your cords and charge your devices on the go. Its wide roll-top opening with a magnetic closure allows easy access to your belongings, while the removable packing cube keeps your clothes organized.

The padded laptop sleeve with safe edge construction ensures the protection of your laptop, and you can access it through the top-loading compartment or the side zipper.

• Neatly manages cords and keeps devices charged
• Easy access to contents with wide roll top opening
• Removable packing cube for organized packing
• Padded laptop sleeve with safe edge construction
• Multiple access points for laptop
• Zipper durability issues reported by some customers

• Cords are neatly managed between your device and your mobile charger in the internal power pocket
• Easy access to contents through wide roll top opening with magnetic closure
• Keep clothes organized while traveling thanks to removable packing cube

Best Full-size Travel Backpacks for Traveling Asia

Looking for a full-size backpack for your trip? Look no further!

Some of the best options include the Osprey Atmos AG 65L, Osprey Porter 65L, Osprey Ariel 65L (for women), Osprey Aether Plus 70L, Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, and Osprey Renn 65L (also for women).

These backpacks offer ample storage space, comfortable carrying systems, and durable construction, making them ideal for your adventures in Asia.

Osprey Atmos AG 65L

The Osprey Atmos AG 65L is the ideal full-size travel backpack for your hiking adventures. With its lightweight design and comfortable anti-gravity suspension system, this backpack allows you to explore without feeling weighed down.

The curved zip access and floating top lid provide easy access to your belongings, while the included rain cover ensures your gear stays dry during unexpected showers. The Osprey Atmos AG 65L also features a reinforced shove-it pocket and an internal hydration sleeve, making it perfect for short and longer expeditions.

Whether trekking through the mountains or navigating bustling city streets, this backpack will keep you organized and comfortable.

• Lightweight and comfortable AntiGravity suspension system
• Curved zip access and floating top lid for easy access
• Included rain cover for protection against the elements
• Bright green rain cover may not be aesthetically pleasing to some users

• Included raincover made with PFAS-free DWR and bluesign approved materials
• Curved zip access on one side of panel
• Floating top lid with lash points

Osprey Porter 65L

Pack all your essentials and hit the road with the Osprey Porter 65L, the ultimate full-size travel backpack. With its large storage capacity and convenient organization, this backpack allows you the freedom to explore without worrying about leaving anything behind.

The U-zip zip access to the main compartment with lockable zippers ensures the security of your belongings. The padded sidewalls protect your items, while the shoulder straps and hip belt can be tucked away when checked.

The Osprey Porter 65L isn’t only durable and versatile but made with recycled fabrics and sustainable materials so that you can feel good about your purchase.

• Large storage capacity
• Convenient organization with on-the-go access
• Durable and versatile
• Discomfort caused by the flimsy backplate
• Size may not be suitable for carry-on
• Lack of a removable bladder

• Zippered top pocket provides easy access to toiletries and liquids
• U-zip full panel zip access to main compartment
• StraightJacket compression with padded sidewalls secures any size load effectively

Osprey Ariel 65L (Designed for Women)

You’ll love the Osprey Ariel 65L as your go-to full-size travel backpack for exploring the world. This backpack is designed specifically for women, providing a comfortable and adjustable fit that allows you to move freely and effortlessly. The spacious front zip access makes packing and unpacking your belongings easy, while the separate bottom compartment allows for better organization.

The Osprey Ariel 65L isn’t only durable but comes in an attractive color that adds a touch of style to your adventures. With convenient features like pole stow straps and lower-access water bottle pockets, this backpack is designed to enhance your freedom and convenience while traveling.

• Comfortable and adjustable fit
• Spacious front zip access
• Separate bottom compartment
• Attractive color
• Convenient features like pole stow straps and lower-access water bottle pockets
• Fewer pockets compared to other models
• No stow-on-the-go pole loops
• Smaller waist-belt pockets
• Lack of convenient stow for certain items

• Premium efficiency and design
• Storage tuned to the each season
• Purpose designed to help mak the most of each exploration

Osprey Aether Plus 70L

When exploring the Asian continent, carry all your essentials comfortably with the Osprey Aether Plus 70L backpack. This backpack allows you to pack everything you need for your adventure without sacrificing comfort. With its large capacity of 70 liters, you can easily fit 3-5 days worth of trekking gear. The adjustable lumbar padding and strap adjustments ensure a customized fit, while the height-adjustable back plate and load-lifter straps help distribute the weight evenly.

The multiple compartments and side mesh pockets allow easy organization and quick access to your belongings. Additionally, the backpack features a removable top lid that can be converted into a day pack, perfect for shorter excursions. The Osprey Aether Plus 70L backpack isn’t only comfortable to wear but also made of strong and durable material, ensuring it will withstand the rigors of your travels.

• Large capacity suitable for 3-5 days of trekking
• Included neon-green raincover
• Adjustable lumbar padding and strap adjustments
• Height-adjustable back plate and load-lifter straps
• Multiple compartments and side mesh pockets
• The trekking pole holder and top portion can be used as a day pack
• Comfortable and well-ventilated design
• Strong and durable material
• Pricey compared to some other brands
• Complex design with many pockets and straps
• Empty pack weight may be a concern for those aiming for a lighter pack

• Removable top lid converts to DayLid daypack
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
• Dual front panel zippered pockets for easy-access storage

Osprey Renn 65L (Designed for Women)

Don’t miss out on the Osprey Renn 65L backpack designed specifically for women, considered one of the best full-size travel backpacks for exploring any continent.

This backpack is perfect for women who desire the freedom to travel comfortably and efficiently. With its womens-specific sizing and fit, you can experience a pack tailored to your body, providing optimal comfort and support.

The Osprey Renn 65L features a fixed top lid with a zippered pocket, allowing quick and easy access to your essentials. It’s also compatible with the Osprey Daylite, offering additional storage options. The integrated and removable rain cover ensures your belongings stay dry in unpredictable weather.

With superb ventilation, a sleeping bag compartment, and hip belt pockets, this backpack offers convenience and functionality during your travels.

• Womens-specific sizing and fit
• Fixed top lid with zippered pocket
• Osprey Daylite compatible
• Integrated and removable rain cover
• Superb ventilation
• Sleeping bag compartment
• Hipbelt pockets
• Hard and rough shoulder straps
• Lacks side pockets
• It may not be suitable for heavy packers

• Women’s-specific sizing and fit
• Osprey Daylite compatible with front panel cord loop attachment points

Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10

Experience the comfort and versatility of the Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10, the best full-size travel backpack for exploring the planet. This backpack is designed for those seeking freedom and adventure on their journey. With a capacity of 65L and an additional 10L expansion pack, it offers ample space for all your travel essentials.

The Aircontact Core back system ensures effective load transfer, keeping the weight close to your body and center of gravity, providing full pack control and outstanding load transfer. The VariSlide adjustable back length and ActiveFit shoulder straps built on a Y-frame offer a secure and perfectly balanced fit, ensuring maximum comfort even during long treks.

• Ample storage capacity
• Effective load transfer for better control
• Adjustable back length for a personalized fit
• Comfortable and balanced shoulder straps
• Hand washing only may require additional effort
• It may be too large for some travelers
• Limited color options

• Adjustable sternum belt, VariSlide System, VariFlex System, Pull-forward hip fins, Walking pole…
• Inside compartment to keep your valuables safe, Elasticated inner compartment for storing wet/sweaty…
• Hip fins with two zippered pockets, Goggle holder on shoulder strap, Lumbar pad for effective load…

How to Pack a Backpack for Travel

To make the most of your backpacking experience, start by familiarizing yourself with the proper way to pack your backpack. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and enjoy the freedom of traveling with a backpack:

• Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes or compression sacks to organize your belongings and maximize space.
• Pack versatile and lightweight clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions.
• Keep your essentials easily accessible by using the outer pockets of your backpack.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your possessions are packed efficiently and ready for your backpacking adventures.

Embrace the freedom of traveling light and easily explore the diverse landscapes and cultures. Happy travels!

Travel Backpack Sizing Guide

Choose a backpack size between 30L and 70L that suits your individual needs when traveling. Different sizes can work for you depending on your travel style and the duration of your trip. Here’s a table comparing the features of various backpack sizes to help you make the right choice:

When headed to Asia, a backpack in the 40L-45L range would be a good choice. It allows you to pack the essentials without exceeding carry-on size limits. Consider investing in one of the best travel backpacks of reputable brands that offer durability and comfort, as they are designed to withstand years of travel. Find the perfect travel backpack that suits your needs and desires for freedom.

Essential Items to Pack in Your Travel Backpack

Pack essential items in your travel backpack, and remember to include a first aid kit and extra toiletries. These items can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go and need a quick fix.

But what else should you pack in your backpack to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip? Here are some must-haves:

• A portable charger: Stay connected and never miss a moment by keeping your devices powered up.
• A microfiber towel: Lightweight and quick-drying, it’s perfect for those impromptu beach days or hostel showers.
• A reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by refilling your bottle wherever you go.
• A universal adapter: Keep your electronics charged no matter where you are.

What are the best backpacks for traveling Asia?

A: Some of the best carry-on backpacks for travel in Asia include the Osprey Farpoint and Peak Design backpacks. The best full-size backpacks include the Osprey Atmos and the Deuter Aircontact Core.

What makes a backpack the best for travel?

The best travel backpacks are designed with specific features that make them ideal for travel. These features include durability, comfort, ample storage space, organized compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and a TSA-friendly design. The best travel backpack should also be lightweight and have excellent weight distribution.

What size backpack is best for traveling?

The size of the backpack you choose for traveling depends on your personal preferences and the length of your trip. However, a carry-on travel backpack with a capacity of around 40-45 liters is generally recommended. This size provides enough space for your essentials while still complying with airline carry-on size restrictions.

Can I use a backpack as a carry-on for air travel?

Many travel backpacks are designed to be used as carry-on luggage for air travel. However, checking the airline’s carry-on size restrictions is essential to ensuring your backpack meets the requirements. Generally, carry-on travel backpacks are designed to fit within the specified dimensions and provide easy access to your belongings during the flight.

What should I consider when choosing a travel backpack?

When choosing a travel backpack, you should consider factors such as the duration of your trip, your travel style, the climate of your destination, and the activities you plan to engage in. It’s also essential to consider the backpack’s features, such as size, weight, storage compartments, comfort, and durability.

What is the best backpack for hiking and backpacking in Asia?

For hiking and backpacking in Asia , choosing a backpack specifically designed for outdoor activities is recommended. Some popular hiking backpacks include the Osprey Farpoint 40, Nomatic 40L, and Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

What are the best travel backpacks of 2024?

While it’s not possible to predict the exact best travel backpacks of 2024, some backpacks that are highly rated and expected to perform well in 2023 include the Osprey Farpoint 40, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Nomatic 40L, and Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

What should I look for in a travel backpack for long-term travel?

When choosing a travel backpack for long-term travel, it’s crucial to prioritize durability, comfort, and ample storage space. Look for a backpack that can withstand the rigors of frequent travel, has adjustable straps for a customized fit, and offers enough room to carry your essentials for an extended period.

Can I use a laptop backpack for travel?

Yes, a laptop backpack can be an excellent option for travel, especially if you frequently travel with your laptop or other electronic devices. Some backpacks, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack, are specifically designed to accommodate laptops and provide additional protection for your electronics.

What are the advantages of using one bag for travel?

The advantages of one-bag travel include increased mobility, convenience, and flexibility. With one-bag travel, you can navigate airports and crowded streets more easily and be free to explore your destination without the burden of multiple bags.

Matt Francis

Hi, I'm Matt Francis. A digital nomad, blogger, web developer and all-around good egg! I am the brains (and brawn) behind Everyday Ape. My website features a wide range of topics, with a focus on travelling and working online.

Related Posts

Choosing the Right Backpack Size: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

• June 11, 2024

10 Best Luggage Options for Living Out of Your Suitcase

• June 5, 2024

Essential Week-Long Trip Ultimate Packing List (Checklist Included)

• May 22, 2024

Trending now

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Greece: 8-Nt, Small-Group Tour, Incl. Aegina,...

Amsterdam to Copenhagen: Luxe, 18-Night Northern...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

Navigating Carry-On Luggage Requirements Across Continents

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

Carrying the right luggage can make or break your travel experience. Understanding the intricate carry-on luggage requirements for different continents is crucial for a hassle-free journey. Let’s guide you on what you need to know before you pack your bags.

Carry-on luggage regulations vary not only by continent but also by the airline, with some universal dimensions but differing weight limits. While dimensions are relatively standard, weight restrictions can significantly vary, and they are strictly enforced by most airlines.

Carry-On Luggage Requirements by Continent

Here are the luggage requirements by continent: 

However, travelers should note that low-cost carriers might have stricter limits. In some, additional items like laptops or handbags could be counted separately. 

For those journeying through multiple Asian countries, it’s advisable to pack light to accommodate the varying domestic flight restrictions.

For light aircraft flights in East Africa, specifically in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, the luggage weight limit is set at 15 kg. This limit includes both your main bag and any hand luggage. The dimensions for each piece should be 30 cm in x 30 cm x 70 cm.

In the case of light aircraft flights across Southern Africa, the weight allowance varies from 15 kg to 20 kg, depending on your specific destination within these countries. Confirm the exact allowance, as this limit includes your main bag and hand luggage. The size requirements remain the same for East Africa.

For both regions, your main bag is entirely soft-sided. This flexibility is necessary to fit into the small cargo holds of light aircraft. Rigid bags with wheels or hard suitcases are unsuitable as they cannot be accommodated in the compartments of these light aircraft.

North America

In North America, the average weight allowance for carry-on luggage is between 10-12 kg, with the size typically consistent with the international standard of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. While most airlines permit a personal item besides your carry-on, budget airlines might impose extra charges. Despite the relatively lenient weight policies, travelers should remain vigilant about the size restrictions.

South America

Carry-on luggage in South America usually adheres to an 8 to 10 kg weight limit, with dimension standards. Travelers should know that domestic airlines within South America might have more restrictive policies. Check specific requirements with the airline, particularly for intra-continental flights.

Antarctica has unique luggage requirements, determined mainly by the policies of gateway countries like Argentina or Chile and specific expedition guidelines. Due to the extreme climate and environmental sensitivity, specialized equipment and clothing are necessary. 

Your total luggage, including carry-on items, should not exceed 20 kg for air cruises to Antarctica. Contact their tour operator for particular luggage advice tailored to Antarctic conditions.

In Europe, the carry-on luggage typically must fit within the standard dimensions, with a weight range of 8 to 12 kg. Travelers should be particularly cautious with budget airlines, which enforce strict policies and may impose significant fees for excess luggage. 

For those with extra belongings, consider options like luggage storage in Copenhagen . European airlines are known for strictly enforcing carry-on policies, so utilizing luggage storage services can help you manage your belongings efficiently.

The typical carry-on allowance in Australia aligns with the international standard, usually falling between seven and 10 kg. However, domestic flights within Australia may have stricter weight limits. Travelers should pack lighter when planning domestic travel within Australia to avoid extra charges.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

For hassle-free travel, consider the following tips: 

Check airline websites

Before packing, check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date carry-on luggage requirements. Airlines often update their policies, so relying on past experiences or general guidelines can be misleading. Each airline has its own set of rules that can vary significantly, especially regarding weight limits and additional items. This step is crucial to avoid any inconveniences or extra fees at the airport.

Consider multi-destination trips

When planning a trip spanning multiple continents, it’s wise to pack according to the strictest carry-on regulations. This approach ensures you remain compliant across different airlines and countries. 

Remember that the strictest limit might not necessarily be about weight or size. Sometimes, it’s about the type of items you can carry. Adhering to the most restrictive policy can save you from repacking or incurring extra charges during your journey.

Invest in luggage scales

Investing in a portable luggage scale is a smart move for frequent travelers. It allows you to check the weight of your carry-on luggage from the comfort of your home or hotel, helping you avoid overweight fees at the airport. Knowing your luggage’s weight in advance can provide peace of mind and a smoother check-in process.

Travel Light and Stay Flexible 

Staying informed about potential changes through the airline’s communication channels or regularly checking their website is critical. Being flexible and ready to adapt to these changes can make your travel experience much less stressful.

Related posts:

• Polaroid of the week: Cycling through Berlin
• 7 of the Best Places in Miami to Visit by Yacht

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel & Lifestyle Products

I’m About to Board a 15-Hour Flight to Asia: Here’s Everything I’m Bringing With Me

Ear plugs, heated eye masks, snack bags, organizers, and more.

Real Simple / Tyler Roeland

I’ve been traveling to Asia since I was a toddler, so 15+ hour long-haul flights feel like nothing to me anymore. Of course, as a kid, my parents were the ones to prepare the snacks, activities, and comfy essentials. But now as an adult with over 25 years of international traveling under my belt, I’ve honed down my routine, starting from leaving my house to head to the airport to landing at my final destination.  

From a hands-free skincare routine to portable batteries that serve as my main and backup power source in a crowded airport and on the plane itself, I’m sharing my 15 must-have travel essentials that I’m carrying with me on my upcoming two-week trip to Seoul, South Korea. Best part? Everything’s conveniently available on Amazon, and Prime members can get everything faster with free two-day shipping. While I can’t promise that you won’t lose your luggage or your flight won’t be delayed, I can help prepare you to get through what could be an uncomfortably long day to be pretty pleasant.

Amazon Travel Essentials for a Long-Haul Flight

• Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank , $40
• Loop Quiet Ear Plugs , $28
• CorneaCare Self-Heating Eye Mask , $35
• Apple AirTag 4-Pack , $80 (was $99)
• Fyy Travel Cable Organizer , $10 (was $13) 
• Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes (Pack of 6 ), $39 (was $43)
• Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Headphones , $328 (was $400)
• Stall Mate Wipes , $12
• Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation) , $389 (was $499)
• Comrad Knee High Compression Socks , $27 with coupon (was $28)
• E11ement Hypochlorous Acid Face Spray , $10
• D'Alba Italian White Truffle First Spray Serum , $20
• Stasher Platinum Silicone Food Grade Reusable Storage Bag , $10 (was $13)
• Trendy Queen Zip Up Hoodies , $20 with coupon (was $50)
• Refresh Plus Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops , $22

Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank

It’s no secret that I am a tech lover. From multiple cameras and bluetooth earphones to laptops and iPads, I am always looking for extra power to source my hobbies and leisure activities. But, I absolutely despise having to search for an outlet, so I always have a portable charger on me. For long-haul flights, though, I carry around this 20,000mAh Anker power bank that can fully charge my iPhone and iPad multiple times, and even give my Macbook Pro extra juice. With such a large power capacity, it does take a bit to charge, but once it’s loaded, I can travel days without being bound to a wall outlet or broken airplane charging port. 

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

You’ll never catch me without my Airpod Pros when I’m traveling, but when I want to just sleep undisturbed without killing the battery on my earphones, I’ll opt for these Loop ear plugs instead. They’re the tiny-but-mighty secret to helping me sleep on planes—and they don’t fall. Each ear plug comes with a range of insert sizes, and once you have your proper fit, it doesn’t feel like you have anything in your ears. They also come in a variety of colors, and if you’re looking for higher noise cancellation, the brand offers different models for that, too. I love that it comes in its own tiny carrying case, which features a little loop that I attach to my keys for easy access.

CorneaCare Self-Heating Eye Mask

As a chronic contact-wearer and monitor-starer, dry eyes are an inevitable part of my life. While I’ve been wearing these eye masks to sleep to help relieve my dry eyes, they’re the best for sleeping on a plane. Each eye mask is individually wrapped, and as you unwrap and unfold the mask, it’ll start heating up on its own. I’ve found that the warmth lasts around 20-25 minutes, which is more than enough time to put me to sleep. And, of course, having the darkness of the mask keeps me asleep. They’re comfortable to wear, too, thanks to the thin and stretchy mesh fabric that fits snugly but gently around your ears. I always carry a few with me in my personal item, especially for 15+ hour flights that I know I’ll be in and out of sleep. I’ve even given these out to friends who struggle to sleep on planes, too, and they were wowed with how the warm eye mask helped. 

Apple AirTag 4-Pack

Every frequent traveler knows that Apple AirTags are a must. They’re slim, easy to use, and the battery lasts ages. I have one in each of my luggages when I’m flying (usually one carry-on and one check-in), one in my personal item, and one in my passport. Once I land at my destination, I’ll take these out of my luggage and insert them into my handbag, camera bag, wallet, and passport case—having the four-pack is so convenient. I’ve used these for years and still haven’t had to switch out the battery, which is also easy to re-install. And as an Apple-only device user, the tags seamlessly connect to all my devices for easy management and watching of my valuables. 

The key to traveling comfortably is to always be prepared, and these are just a few of the many travel hacks I’ve acquired over the years of boarding a lot of long-haul flights. If you’re looking for more practical and also unassuming things that I promise will help for a smoother travel experience, find my must-haves below.

Fyy Travel Cable Organizer

Bagsmart compression packing cubes (pack of 6), sony wh-1000xm5 noise-canceling headphones, stall mate wipes, apple ipad mini (6th generation), comrad knee high compression socks, e11ement hypochlorous acid face spray, d'alba italian white truffle first spray serum, stasher platinum silicone food grade reusable storage bag, trendy queen zip up hoodies, refresh plus preservative-free lubricant eye drops, more must-shop products.

Related Articles

Enable JavaScript

Please enable JavaScript to fully experience this site. How to enable JavaScript

• At the airport

Delayed or damaged bags

File a bag report.

If your bag is delayed or damaged, you can file a report on the go and may not need to visit the airport Baggage Service Office.

How it works:

• Find our sign with a QR code at Baggage Claim
• Scan the QR code or visit the site using your device
• Enter your last name and American confirmation code or bag tag number to begin

This service is available for trips ending in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Delayed bags

Bags can sometimes be delayed, even with our best efforts. If you can’t find your bags after landing, file a report before leaving the airport.

For flights within the U.S., report delayed bags:

• Within 4 hours of arriving at your destination
• Within 12 hours of arriving if you used Bags VIP Luggage Delivery

For international flights, report delayed bags upon arriving at your destination and before leaving the airport.

The agent will give you a 13-character file ID when you file a report. You can use the file ID to submit a claim for your delayed bags and check the status of your bags.

Find your bags Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Bags delayed 5+ days

If your bag has been missing for 5 or more days, we need more information to help you. To get started, submit an online claim using the 13-character file ID you received at the airport.

Submit a claim Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Our Central Baggage Resolution Office will do everything they can to locate your bag. If they’re unsuccessful a final decision about your claim will be made in accordance with our:

• Conditions of carriage
• Liability for international flights

This decision will be sent to you by email.

Reimbursement

We will reimburse you for the reasonable and necessary items you need immediately while away from home without your bags. To be reimbursed send this information to us within 30 days of your delay:

• Your 13-character file ID
• A copy of your ticket receipt and baggage claim checks
• Your original, dated, itemized receipts

If we can't find your bag, any expense reimbursement will be deducted from the final settlement amount.

How to submit your claim

The quickest way to submit your claim and verification items is to submit them online.

If you can't submit online, you can send your claim and verification items along with a completed Passenger Property Questionnaire by mail. Keep in mind it may take longer for us to receive it through the mail and our response may be delayed.

American Airlines Central Baggage P.O. Box 619619 DFW Airport, TX 75261-9616

Complete the questionnaire (PDF) Opens a PDF in a new window.

Damaged bags

Bags may get damaged when they’re checked, even with our best efforts. If you notice damage to your bags after landing, file a report before leaving the airport.

• For flights within the U.S., file a report before leaving the airport, or within 24 hours of receiving your bags.*
• For international flights, file a report before leaving the airport, or within 7 days of receiving your bags.

We’ll give you a 13-character file incident number (file ID) when you report your bag as damaged. You can use the file ID to submit a claim.

• Liability limitations

* You must report damage to delayed bags on flights within the U.S. within 24 hours of receiving them.

If Transportation Security Administration (TSA) inspects your bag, they’ll place a written notification inside or a seal on the outside. If you think the damage was caused by the inspection, contact TSA at 866-289-9673.

• Don't over-pack. Over-packing can cause stress on seams and zippers, making it more likely to tear or break.
• Don't check bags that won’t close completely. Bags that don't close completely leaves your belongings exposed to damage.
• Avoid checking carry-on items like laptops, briefcases and totes.
• Don't travel with extremely old or worn bags. These bags are more likely to break or tear.
• Don't pack restricted items.

Restricted items

Missing contents

We will not accept liability for missing items inside a checked bag on flights within the U.S. unless it has been reported as delayed or damaged.

If your bag was delayed or damaged and you notice missing items after it’s delivered, you must file a missing items claim within 24 hours of receiving your bag for flights within the U.S., or 7 days for international flights.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

You may also like...

Lost and found

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Suitcases + Duffel Bags

The 73 Best Labor Day Luggage Deals From Samsonite, Tumi, Calpak, and More Up to 69% Off

Save big on luggage sets, carry-ons, and duffels this weekend.

• Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack

Dagne Dover

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Ah, Labor Day, the unofficial marker of summer’s conclusion and the beginning of fall. While many of us are just happy to enjoy an extra day off from work, hundreds of online retailers use the holiday weekend as an opportunity to clean house, slashing prices on their best-selling products in order to make way for upcoming releases. Across the web, you’ll find major discounts on tons of essentials for any upcoming trips, including travel clothes , tech products , and, of course, luggage.

This weekend, some of our favorite luggage brands — including Samsonite , Travelpro , and Calpak — are hosting can't-miss Labor Day sales on weekender bags, hardside suitcases, compact carry-ons, tote bags, backpacks, and more. From now through Monday, you can save hundreds on top-rated luggage sets, like this Champs Element 3-Piece Luggage Set , currently $940 off (you read that right!). 

Even better news? We’ve already scoured the internet for the 73 best luggage deals happening this weekend, so you don’t have to. Hurry, though — these sales won’t last past the weekend, and with so many steep discounts on the list, we can’t promise that they’ll be in stock for much longer. 

Even if your next planned trip won’t be until the holidays, you’ll rest easy knowing you’re more than prepared for your future travels. Happy shopping! 

Best Amazon Luggage Deals 

Amazon is absolutely teeming with major Labor Day deals sitewide, and their luggage section is overflowing with rare opportunities to save on top-selling brands. This weekend, you can grab a brand new three-piece Rockland luggage set or a Samsonite hardside carry-on for a fraction of their original prices. 

• Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-on , $140 (originally $180)
• Coolife 3-piece Luggage Set , $170 (originally $300)
• Keane Carry-on Suitcase , $96 (originally $240)
• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage , $67 (originally $120)
• Original Penguin Crimson Carry-on Suitcase , $104 (originally $260)
• AnyZip 3-piece Luggage Set , $160 (originally $230)
• Level8 Hardside Carry-on Suitcase , $155 with on-site coupon (originally $200)
• Rockland Jungle Softside 4-piece Luggage Set , $81 (originally $264)

AnyZip 3-piece Luggage Set

Best nordstrom and nordstrom rack luggage deals  .

Nordstrom Rack

You might already adore Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack for their selection of designer apparel and accessories, but they sell a wide variety of luggage, too. Both sites host impressive travel sections filled with brand names like Herschel Supply Co., Tumi, and Kenneth Cole. This Labor Day weekend, they’re flaunting some of the best deals we’ve found so far, including this 60 percent off Champs Luggage Set and this Kenneth Cole Colombian Leather Bag , currently $425 off. That’s because they’re offering an extra 25 percent off existing clearance items — until September 2, that is.

• Herschel Heritage Duffle Bag , $84 (originally $120)
• Champs Element 3-piece Luggage Set , $280 (originally $1200)
• Tumi 22" International Carry-on Spinner , $405 (originally $675)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Hardside Luggage , $100 (originally $360)
• Travelpro Rollmaster Lite Expandable Medium Suitcase , $112 (originally $400)
• It Luggage Encompass Expanding Hardside Luggag e, $90 (originally $180)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Duffel Bag , $200 (originally $625)
• Vince Camuto Jania 2.0 2-piece Luggage Set , $170 (originally $440)
• Lesportsac Dakota DLX Duffel , $60 (originally $135)
• Travelers Choice Delmont Hardcase Luggage , $100 (originally $240) 

Travelpro Rollmaster Lite Medium Suitcase

Best samsonite luggage deals.

Samsonite has been supplying the world with high-quality luggage for over 100 years. Right now, the legacy brand is closing out its summer inventory with The Perfect Getaway Sale , which features up to 30 percent off its top-rated collection of suitcases , luggage sets , and expandable backpacks . To sweeten the deal, the brand has added an additional opportunity to save: Enter the code “EXTRA10” at checkout for an extra 10 percent off your discounted total. 

• Samsonite Pivot 3 3-piece Set , $300 (originally $500)
• Samsonite Novaire 2-piece Set , $300 (originally $520)
• Samsonite Mobile Solution Spinner Office Bag , $140 (originally $200)
• Samsonite Tru Frame 2-piece Set , $390 (originally $600)
• Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack , $70 (originally $100)
• Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner Suitcase , $196 (originally $280)
• Samsonite Voltage DLX 2-piece Set , $200 (originally $360)

Samsonite Novaire 2-Piece Set

Best dagne dover luggage deals.

Women-founded travel brand Dagne Dover has garnered a reputation for marrying quality and style since the company’s 2013 launch. Known for using durable materials and minimalist, tonal colorways, Dagne Dover bags feel as luxurious as they look. This weekend, the brand is offering up to 60 percent off sitewide during their end-of-season sale, and we’ve caught the most impressive discounts below, including this $90 Indi Diaper Backpack , originally $195. 

• Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag , $100 (originally $215)
• Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack , $90 (originally $195)
• Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack , $100 (originally $215)
• Dagne Dover Nova Sling Bag , $65 (originally $155)
• Dagne Dover Mara Air Phone Sling Bag , $35 (originally $75)
• Dagne Dover Vida Cotton Tote Bag , $75 (originally $175)

Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack

Best lo & sons luggage deals  .

Lo & Sons

Asian-American family-owned brand Lo & Sons puts practicality at the forefront. The brand heralds itself as a supplier of sustainable, thoughtfully designed totes, backpacks, and handbags that have useful organizational components built into every piece. Their bestsellers are up to 50 percent off during their end-of-summer sale, with some of their most popular pieces — including the Catalina Deluxe Tote, just $123 — seeing the biggest discounts. 

• Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote , $123 (originally $205)
• Lo & Sons Hakuba Backpack , $138 (originally $275)
• Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody Bag , $149 (originally $298)
• Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Bag , $105 (originally $210)
• Lo & Sons Westholme Backpack , $314 (originally $628)
• Lo & Sons Rowledge Backpack , $340 (originally $485)
• Lo & Sons O.G. 2 Overnight Bag , $265 (originally $378)

Lo & Sons Hakuba Backpack

Best monos luggage deals.

Named after the Japanese concept of mono no aware – the profound appreciation of the beauty in fleeting moments — travel brand Monos is known for its simple, yet undeniably exceptional line of durable carry-ons, suitcases, and bags. In honor of Labor Day weekend, the brand is offering up to 25 percent off their entire collection when you use the promo code “LONGWEEKEND” at checkout. And yes, the deal applies to already-discounted items, as well, meaning you can score this stunning Metro Duffel for $61 off. 

• Monos Carry-on Pro , $221 (originally $295)
• Monos Metro Duffel , $184 (originally $245)
• Monos Metro Weekender , $188 (originally $250)
• Monos Metro Backpack , $150 (originally $200)
• Monos Medium Check-in Suitcase , $244 (originally $325)
• Monos Carry-on Plus , $206 (originally $275)

Monos Metro Duffel

Best calpak luggage deals.

We love Los Angeles travel brand Calpak for their wide variety of fun color options and dedication to functionality. This Labor Day weekend, you can save up to 15 percent on the brand’s bestsellers, like the multi-pocket Kaya Laptop Backpack , or the Luka Soft-sided Carry-on — but if you really need a luggage overhaul, we recommend starting off fresh with Evry Starter Bundle , on sale for $463. No promo code required: Simply add items to your cart for an automatic 15 percent discount on orders over $100. 

• Calpak Evry Starter Bundle , $463 (originally $545)
• Calpak Hue Carry-on , $225 (originally $265)
• Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag , $153 (originally $180)
• Calpak Hue Medium Luggage , $208 (originally $245)
• Calpak Stevyn Rolling Duffel , $140 (originally $165)
• Calpak Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-on , $140 (originally $165)
• Calpak Kaya 15 inch Laptop Backpack , $117 (originally $138)
• Calpak Hue Medium Trunk Luggage , $225 (originally $265)

Calpak Hue Carry-on

Best travelpro luggage deals.

You can save up to 30 percent on luggage sets, weekender bags, duffels, and more during Travelpro ’s Labor Day sale. A tried-and-true favorite brand among Travel + Leisure editors, Travelpro has earned its stripes as the most trusted luggage brand of airline crews and flight attendants worldwide. Grab this Travelpro x Travel + Leisure set for 20 percent off, or pick up the luxurious Platinum Elite Regional duffel for under $200 while supplies last. 

• Travelpro Roundtrip 2-piece Luggage Set , $330 (originally $380)
• Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Check-in and Weekender Bag Set , $856 (originally $1070) 
• Travelpro Maxlite Air Large Check-in Luggage , $212 (originally $250)
• Travelpro Maxlite 5 Floating On Air Luggage Set , $512 (originally $640)
• Travelpro Crew Classic 2-piece Luggage Set , $472 (originally $589)
• Travelpro Platinum Elite Regional Duffel Bag , $195 (originally $230)
• Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-in Luggage , $365 (originally $430
• Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-on Rolling Underseat Bag , $127 (originally $150)

Travelpro x Travel + Leisure Check-in and Weekender Bag Set

Best away luggage deals  .

New York City-based luggage company Away has quickly become one of our favorite luggage brands due in part to how well the company’s bags holds up against rough handling in our testing lab . The modern travel brand isn’t known for having frequent sales, but this weekend, you can save up to 15 percent on their award-winning collection of luggage and bags, including this sleek Aluminum Edition Bigger Carry-on , currently $200 off. 

• Away Aluminum Edition Bigger Carry-on , $465 (originally $665)
• Away Outdoor Duffel , $95 (originally $190)
• Away Medium Suitcase , $310 (originally $345)
• Away Quilted Everywhere Bag , $135 (originally $225)
• Away Packable Carryall , $45 (originally $75)
• Away Large Flex Suitcase , $382 (originally $425)

Away Outdoor Duffel

Best july luggage deals.

Australian luggage brand July has been making waves since their launch in 2019, thanks to their vibrant color options and chic design details. Per the brand, their line of hardside suitcases and travel bags are built to “last a lifetime”, and for this weekend only, you can invest in what may very well be the last luggage you’ll ever need to purchase — all while saving up to 25 percent.   

• July Checked Plus Suitcase , $311 (originally $345)
• July Carry On Trunk , $378 (originally $445)
• July Everyday Large Tote , $116 (originally $145)
• July Carry On Lite Suitcase , $208 (originally $245)
• July Carry On Pro SnapSleeve , $293 (originally $345)
• July Juliette Small Tote , $157 (originally $185)
• July Checked Trunk , $463 (originally $545)

July Carry-On Trunk

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles

Articles AirAsia Flights: Early Flex Fee Frequently Asked Questions

Explore other articles and discussions on this topic.

28/08/2024 • FAQs

Information.

• Outbound Malaysia (all outbound AirAsia flights with airline codes AK, D7, QZ, Z2, KT & FD)
• Cambodia (all outbound and inbound AirAsia flights with airline codes AK & KT)
• Indonesia (international flights only with airline codes AK & QZ)
• The request must be made at least an hour before your standard time of departure (STD) and on the same day as your original flight.  - For example, if the STD of your flight is at 4.00PM, you may submit an Early Flex request up till 3.00PM to change to any available earlier flight on the same day of your original flight.   
• Valid for point-to-point booking only (No Fly-Thru flights or connection flights are composed of several legs).
• Subject to seat availability.
• The change is not confirmed until you are issued with a new flight Itinerary.
• Changes on route(s) are not allowed.