The smart packing list

Documents and money

• Passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date
• Visas or electronic travel authorisations (check your destination's official site)
• Travel insurance details, saved offline
• Two payment cards kept in different places, plus a little local cash
• Digital and paper copies of bookings

Clothing that works almost anywhere

• Layers you can combine: a T-shirt, a long-sleeve top and a light insulating jacket
• A packable rain jacket
• One smarter outfit for nice dinners
• Comfortable walking shoes you have already broken in
• A scarf or sarong for temples, mosques and churches

By climate

Hot and humid (Bangkok, Bali, Singapore): breathable linen or cotton, sun hat, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent. Cold (Reykjavík in winter): thermal base layers, a waterproof shell, warm hat and gloves. High altitude (Cusco): layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons, lip balm with SPF.

Tech

• Universal plug adapter
• Power bank (carry it in hand luggage)
• Offline maps and translation apps downloaded before you leave
• An eSIM or local SIM plan

Health

• Prescription medicines in original packaging, with a copy of the prescription
• A small first-aid kit
• Rehydration salts for hot climates

The most-forgotten items

• Phone charging cable
• Reusable water bottle
• Earplugs and an eye mask
• A pen for arrival forms