Packing list for a long-haul trip
Passport, visa, vaccination record and everything for the long flight: the list for trips to faraway countries, from Asia to South America.
Long-haul trip
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Combine it with a second list
A trip is often more than one list. Add a second one: matching sections are folded together and nothing appears twice.
Getting through the long flight
A long-haul trip starts with many hours on a plane. The seat pocket in front of you should hold whatever you want without getting up: neck pillow, sleep mask, earplugs, water bottle, snacks and something to read. The air conditioning on board is often chilly, so a warm layer belongs in your hand luggage even if heat awaits you at the other end.
Compression socks can be pleasant on long flights. Whether they make sense for you is best discussed with a pharmacist or your doctor. Get up and move around now and then, which helps your legs as well. A pen comes in handy if paper entry forms are still handed out on board.
Papers, visas and vaccinations
For many faraway destinations you need a passport that stays valid beyond the end of your trip, and sometimes a visa or an electronic entry authorisation that you apply for in advance. What exactly applies depends on the country and changes over time. Check a few weeks before you leave with your government’s travel advice and the embassy of your destination.
Vaccinations need time as well. Get travel health advice early and take your vaccination record with you. If you plan to hire a car, ask in advance whether an international driving permit is required alongside your licence.
Heat, sun and mosquitoes
In tropical countries, sun and mosquitoes are the biggest nuisances. Light, airy clothes in linen or cotton are more comfortable than tight ones, and long sleeves protect you in the evening, when many mosquitoes are about. Insect repellent, high-factor sun cream and after-sun belong in your wash bag.
In your first aid kit, diarrhoea tablets, rehydration salts and a gel for insect bites help. Whatever else you might need, such as protection against malaria, is something to clarify at your travel health appointment.
What people often forget on a long-haul trip
Often missing are the right adapter for the sockets at your destination, copies of your passport and visa, and a power bank for long transfers. A change of clothes in your hand luggage is only missed once your case fails to appear on the belt after a connection.
If you are travelling light or carrying on with a backpack, combine the long-haul trip with hand luggage or backpacking, and for days by the sea with the beach holiday. Matching sections are folded together and nothing appears twice.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to think about for a long-haul trip?
Above all, the preparation takes time. Check early how long your passport is still valid, whether you need a visa or an entry authorisation, and which vaccinations are recommended. The requirements depend on the country and change over time, and your government’s travel advice is a good place to start. Travel health insurance that also covers getting you home belongs on the list too.
What should I bring in my hand luggage on a long-haul flight?
Everything that makes the flight more comfortable and that you need right after landing: neck pillow, sleep mask, earplugs, a warm layer against the air conditioning, medication, chargers and a change of clothes in case your case arrives late. Liquids, power banks and the size of your hand luggage are subject to rules that differ by airline and airport. Check them before you fly.
Which vaccinations do I need for a long-haul trip?
That depends on the destination, the season and the kind of trip, so there is no general list. Some countries require certain vaccinations on entry, while for others they are only recommended. Get advice at a travel clinic or from your GP a few weeks before you leave, as some vaccinations need more than one appointment. Take your vaccination record with you.
How do I deal with jet lag after a long-haul flight?
It helps to switch to the time at your destination while still on the plane: sleep when it is night there and stay awake when it is day. After arriving, daylight helps your body clock adjust, as does a first day without a full programme. Drink enough water on the flight. A sleep mask and earplugs make it easier to sleep on board.
How it works
“Start with this list” opens the template – once you have signed in with your email address.
Add more templates, such as “Before leaving” for the water, the heating and the plants. Nothing appears twice.
Create the list, tick it off, archive it after the trip – and pack it again next time.
Good to know
- Can I change the list?
- Yes. Your list is yours: add, rename, move and delete items. The template stays as it is.
- Does it cost anything?
- No. No subscription, no ads. All you need is an email address, no password.