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Forbes
23-05-2025
- Forbes
What To Pack For International Travel, According To Our Travel Editor
As a travel editor who has visited over 40 countries and flies overseas multiple times a year, I know the struggles of figuring out what to pack for international travel. Unlike a domestic trip, an international travel packing list is highly dependent on where you're headed. Overseas travel will require essentials—like a multi-use power adaptor and TSA-approved toiletry bottles no bigger than 3.4 ounces—that you may not already have on hand. Luggage for international travel must also be considered, as international airline cabins often have different size and weight restrictions for luggage and personal items. Unlike a domestic trip, an international travel packing list is highly dependent on where you're ... More headed. The simplest way to approach packing for an international trip is to consider which items will go into your carry-on or checked luggage, and which items you'll need to keep in your personal item. While it's easy to shop for forgotten items, it's also imperative to prioritize the items that may be difficult to find in your destination. To curate this list, I considered my own firsthand experience as well as sought insights from Jeremy Maluf, a packing expert who travels the world full-time out of a nine-liter backpack. Here's what to pack for international travel in 2025. What To Pack In Your Personal Item: Aer Travel Pack 3 Small,Epicka Universal Travel Adapter, Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank, Boacay Travel Document Organizer, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones,Arc'teryx Men's Delta Jacket, Arc'teryx Women's Delta Jacket, Comrad Compression Socks, Takeya Actives Water Bottle With Spout Lid, Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer, Venture Large Body Wipes, Weleda Skin Food What To Pack In Your Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On, Forge Cable Lock, Mrsdry Travel Bottles, On Cloud 6, Helly Hansen Men's Loke Shell Jacket, Helly Hansen Women's Loke Shell Jacket, Vuori Strato Tech Tee For Men, Vuori Energy Tee For Women, lululemon Men's Surge Jogger, Spanx AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant, Darn Tough Men's Quarter Hiking Socks Your personal item isn't just extra storage for items that couldn't fit in your luggage. It's your repository for everything you might need in transit and, on the off chance that your checked luggage gets lost, it might be your only luggage for a few days. That means it should contain any essentials you may need on hand—like medication or documents—as well as items to keep you comfortable in transit. Aer It all starts with the right personal item bag: While I've traveled with both totes and backpacks, I prefer a backpack as it keeps my hands free and helps avoid any back pain when things get heavy. San Francisco-based gear company Aer makes some of the best travel backpacks on the market, and its Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is an ideal size for squeezing in all of your essentials and fitting underneath the airplane seat in front of you. Its travel-friendly features include a luggage trolley pass-through, lockable zippers, a pocket for smart trackers and quick-access top and side pockets for small valuables like AirPods or a passport. Amazon This top-rated international adapter by Epicka features four outlet types—three of the most common global plugs and a U.S. plug—that should have you set up for just about any country in the world. It has two USB-A ports and three USB-C ports, so you can charge up to five devices at the same time. As long as you've got this in hand, all of your devices can be charged in the same place. Amazon In case you're ever on a long bus or train ride when you can't plug in, or if you know you're going to burn out your phone's battery taking photos and videos on a full day of sightseeing, an external power bank can save the day. This model by Anker comes highly recommended by Maluf. 'On a good adventure, you never know when your next opportunity to charge will be, and a dead phone can end your day early,' he says. '20,000mah is the sweet spot in my opinion since it gives you several days of charge for longer adventures.' Amazon There are a lot of stylish passport wallets on the market, but this is the most functional choice. It's the one place where you can keep all your important travel documents, with a zipper that gives you the extra security to know that nothing will slip out when you're not paying attention. It can hold up to four passports in multiple slots, and features a handy external pocket for your boarding pass. Best yet, it's very affordable. Bose I bring these headphones with me on every trip, and find them to be very effective at drowning out the hum of the plane, loud snorers or crying babies. They're incredibly comfortable around the ear, and the precision of audio quality is unparalleled, which is why we named them the best wireless headphones on the market today. They're also very quick and easy to charge. Amazon Airplane cabins are usually cold, but they tend to feel colder when you're traveling in the summer and aren't wearing and packing your usual winter layers. This incredibly lightweight jacket from Arc'teryx is a smart solution because it can be folded down into such a small package, it barely takes up any room at all in your bag. Amazon I also highly recommend this jacket in its women's style. Designed for alpine environments, its breathable and moisture-wicking fleece ensures you'll stay comfortable all through the long travel day and it's a great layer to have if you're planning outdoor adventures. Amazon If your feet are prone to swelling on long flights, a pair of compression socks can help relieve discomfort by improving blood flow when you're sedentary or supporting your muscles when you're walking or standing for long hours. I've been using Comrad compression socks on several of my recent long-haul flights and never feel any swelling or pain in my legs upon landing. Takeya USA Dehydration is a major side effect of long flights, and depending on which airline you fly, you may not always have a steady refill of water coming your way. This water bottle can easily slip into your personal item bag and features an easy-to-use spout lid to avoid any spills. Fill it up before your flight and rest easy knowing you'll always have water on hand. Amazon After learning a hard lesson about outdoor toilets on a camping trip in Australia ten years ago, I never traveled without hand sanitizer again. I like these small bottles from Purell because you can easily toss them into the small front pocket of your bag. You can also use a bottle holder to clip them onto your bag's zipper. Amazon After a long travel day, body wipes are one thing you'll be grateful to have in case you find yourself in between showers for longer than you'd like. You can make do with a travel-sized pack or go all-in with these wipes by Venture, which makes its products from biodegradable materials. Amazon If you're prone to dry skin, this travel-sized moisturizer intensively hydrates and is handy to have by your side on any long-haul trip. It can be used on your face and body and is made from plant-rich ingredients like sunflower oil that provide a healthy glow, even after a brutal day of delayed flights. A well-balanced suitcase should be 50 percent dedicated to your personal style—i.e., cute outfits for photos and stylish shoes for any night out—and 50 percent dedicated to function. Remember that international travel takes you to places you don't normally go (like waterfall trails or windy archeological sites), so you should have a few key pieces that will keep you warm, will dry fast if you do get wet and can be worn multiple times without needing a wash. Amazon Choosing the right suitcase for international travel is essential, and the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is a great all-around choice thanks to it being lightweight and an ideal size for international overhead cabins (23 x 15 x 10). It's easy to maneuver and is built with an expandable panel that allows you to fit in extra clothes. If you're committed to checking a suitcase, it also comes in medium and large sizes. Amazon Even if your checked luggage already has a TSA-approved lock built in, it never hurts to have a spare. Cable locks are preferable because they're easier to get on and off than traditional metal U-lock. Forge's cable locks, which we named one of the best TSA-approved luggage locks on the market, comes in packs of four, so you'll have a lock for your whole family or just extra to spare. This model also stands apart from the rest due to its side window, which makes it easier to read the combination. Amazon Airport security size and weight restrictions are no joke, and they often fluctuate between countries. This set of 3 ounce bottles are TSA-approved and are small enough that they shouldn't cause you any grief when transporting through the U.K., Europe or Asia. They're made from a grippy silicone that makes them durable and flexible, meaning you won't have to worry about leaks. A set like this is also great to have on hand if you want to 'borrow' some fancy soaps or shampoos from your hotel. On Shoes are often the heaviest things to pack, so it's important to choose a lightweight pair that won't take up too much room in your luggage. On makes sturdily constructed lightweight sneakers that are ideal for a wide range of terrains; I wore the brand's Cloud 5 sneakers on multiple trips last year. This year, I'll be traveling with the latest version of the shoe, which offers more cushion and extra durability on the vamp and heel. Helly Hansen You should never rule out the chance of rain on an international trip, but you don't have to dedicate too much checked-bag space to your rain jacket either. This jacket can be folded down into its pocket and zips closed to form one tight little parcel that stays out of the way when you don't need it. When you do need it, the waterproof material effectively locks out moisture, but there are vent zippers if you feel you're starting to overheat. Helly Hansen The women's style is made from the same waterproof material and offers a flattering, slimmer cut. Much like the men's version, it's incredibly easy to roll up and stuff into a bag as you jet off on a busy day of sightseeing. Vuori Clothing A moisture-wicking shirt should be a staple of any packing list, as it can be worn in a variety of different climates without getting too sweaty or unmanageable. Made from soft and quick-drying fabric, Vuori's incredibly comfortable travel t-shirts never take up too much room in a suitcase. This men's style also comes in a large variety of colors. Vuori Clothing For women, the Vuori Energy Tee is constructed from a moisture-wicking and sun-protective material. It adds a bit of style to any basic pair of jeans or leggings and the ultra soft fabric will keep its silky feel after years of wear. lululemon When you're always on the go, you'll want to bring along at least one comfortable pair of pants that can be reworn multiple times—and still looks stylish. These lululemon Surge Joggers do the trick: They're lightweight, quick-drying and can be zipped at the cuffs, making them easy to pull on and off. Spanx A friend of mine recommended Spanx's line of pants to me earlier this year, and I was quickly impressed by how comfortable and supportive they are. This pair is particularly soft, and its wide leg style can be worn on everything from walking tours to lunches at chic cafés. Darn Tough If long days of sightseeing are in the cards, you'll want to make sure you bring along a sturdy pair of socks to keep your feet comfortable during long walks. 'I can't recommend these enough,' says Maluf, who always travels with a pair of Darn Tough socks. 'Even though these socks are pricey they're worth it since you're buying peace of mind. I've walked thousands of miles with each pair I own—and no holes.' They're also available in women's styles. From meticulously testing and reviewing the best luggage to bring with you to the airport to the best packing cubes to keep you organized, we at Forbes Vetted have dedicated ourselves to helping make travel easy. When it came time to put together an international travel packing list, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers have everything they need on hand to see the world stress-free.
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23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
Nordstrom's Semi-annual Sale Is Filled With Jaw-dropping Travel Deals—Shop Our 55 Top Picks Up to 75% Off
I'm all about streamlining my packing list—and with summer travel on the horizon, I've been on the hunt for versatile travel clothes that can keep up with my itinerary. Luckily, Nordstrom's Half-yearly Sale happens to fall right over Memorial Day weekend, which means even more travel deals to score on everything from lightweight layers, stylish airport outfits, and supportive, comfortable shoes. From fan-favorite brands like Hoka, Adidas, and Cotton On, plus major markdowns on luggage you'll want for excursions, the sale has everything you need to upgrade your in-transit wardrobe. Whether you're packing for a long-haul flight, a long weekend, or a European adventure, these picks are made to move with you, with discounts up to 75 percent off. Below, I've rounded up the best travel clothes and accessories to snag during Nordstrom's Half-yearly Sale—before they sell out. The key to breezy, stress-free summer travel? A suitcase lined with reliable, stylish shoes. Right now, Nordstrom's Half-yearly Sale is brimming with footwear worth packing. The Dolce Vita Notice Sneakers, which I swear by for sightseeing days in denim shorts or floral dresses, are currently 35 percent off. If you're heading to the Mediterranean this summer, Rothy's The Weekend Slides practically beg to be worn with a flowy linen set while strolling through Positano. Rothy's The Point II Pointed Toe Flats, $109 (originally $155) Dolce Vita Notice Sneakers, $90 (originally $139) Steve Madden Verdict Mesh Sneakers, $48 (originally $80) Vionic Uptown Marin Sandals, $75 (originally $125) 27 Edit Naturalizer Carter Mary Jane Flats, $88 (originally $125) Sam Edelman Zaria Low-top Sneakers, $60 (originally $100) Rothy's The Weekend Slides, $89 (originally $139) Bibi Lou Zagreb Mule, $65 (originally $163) Vince Oasis Sneakers, $175 (originally $250) Sam Edelman Linnie Mule, $98 (originally $140) Marc Fisher LTD Teddy Sneakers, $50 (originally $120) Munro Casita Slide Sandals, $81 (originally $135) Sam Edelman Darla Slide Sandals, $72 (originally $120) Whether you're navigating airport terminals or dressing up for rooftop dinners abroad, Nordstrom's men's shoe selection has you covered. Tretorn's Rawlins Sneakers, now just $50, offer a low-key style that works just as well with jeans on a plane as they do with chinos at a casual café in Barcelona. Need something more polished? The Wolf & Shepherd Crossover Plain Toe Derby Shoes are $87 off and sharp enough for weddings or work trips. From everyday staples to destination-ready dress shoes, these picks will instantly elevate your packing game. Autry Medalist Low Sneakers, $115 (originally $235) Hoka Arahi 7 Running Shoes, $116 (originally $145) Vince Fletcher Slip-on Sneakers, $139 (originally $198) Tretorn Rawlins Sneakers, $50 (originally $80) Puma Super Team Low-top Sneakers, $70 (originally $100) Lands' End Comfort Slide Sandals, $42 (originally $60) Marc Joseph Loafer Driving Shoes, $116 (originally $165) Wolf & Shepherd Crossover Plain Toe Derby Shoes, $163 (originally $250) Adidas Gazelle Sneakers, $75 (originally $100) Frye Mason Loafers, $125 (originally $178) If you're anything like me, half the fun of planning a summer getaway is curating the perfect outfits, and Nordstrom's sale section delivers big time. The Cotton On Haven Multi-tiered Maxi Skirt is a total chameleon: pair it with sneakers and a tee to roam through farmers markets, layer it over your swimsuit with a straw hat for a pool day, or dress it up with wedges for a wine tasting in Napa. Another standout? The Zella In-flight Utility Dress, just $48, which doubles as a comfy travel day outfit or a dinner dress with statement earrings. Caslon Wide-leg Pull-on Linen Blend Pants, $42 (originally $60) Madewell Stripe Smocked Waist Dress, $104 (originally $138) Zella Effortless Cutout Back Hybrid Dress, $67 (originally $89) Cotton On Haven Long-sleeve Shirt, $35 (originally $50) Caslon Drawstring Wide-leg Linen-blend Pants, $42 (originally $60) Cotton On Haven Multi-tiered Maxi Skirt, $42 (originally $60) Nordstrom Stretch Cotton Ribbed Tank Dress, $56 (originally $80) Astr the Label Flared Midi Skirt, $48 (originally $79) Zella In-flight Utility Dress, $48 (originally $69) Open Edit Bias Cut Maxi Skirt, $25 (originally $60) Faherty Oceanview Organic Cotton and Linen Denim Top, $111 (originally $158) Caslon Cotton Gauze Button-up Shirt, $42 (originally $60) Alex Mill Josie Stripe Cotton Shirt Dress, $118 (originally $215) Nordstrom's men's clothing section is packed with staples that work from takeoff to touchdown. The Vince Regular Fit Slub Hoodie, marked down by $68, is the kind of elevated layer that keeps you warm on cool plane rides or breezy coastal nights. For a dinner-ready shirt you can throw on after a beach day, the 7 Diamonds Seager Geo Print Button-up walks the line between casual and dressy with ease. Don't overlook the Cotton & Tencel Modal Crewneck T-shirt—it's soft, breathable, and an unbeatable 75 percent off. These picks make building a travel-ready wardrobe effortless. A summer itinerary calls for luggage that's as dependable as it is sleek, and Nordstrom's Half-yearly Sale delivers. The Stone Mountain Las Vegas 3-piece Hardside Luggage Set (a steal at 64 percent off) is ideal for long-haul trips or family vacations where space matters. The Bugatti Lisbon 2-piece Luggage Set—now 72 percent off—is another smart choice. Even stylish carry-ons are getting the markdown treatment: the Belle & Bloom 5th Ave Leather Backpack, which is 40 percent off, makes the ultimate personal item for flights or a chic day bag while sightseeing. Bugatti Lisbon 2-piece Luggage Set, $140 (originally $500) Stone Mountain Las Vegas 3-piece Hardside Luggage Set, $180 (originally $500) Nonstop New York Elite 3-piece Luggage Set, $200 (originally $400) Swiss Mobility LAX Hardside Carry-on Luggage, $80 (originally $160) Bugatti Pure Backpack, $100 (originally $170) Calvin Klein Vision 3-piece Set, $260 (originally $520) Marc New York Lotus Upright Luggage, $113 (originally $225) Dkny Bias 25-inch Upright Luggage, $160 (originally $320) Belle & Bloom 5th Ave Leather Backpack, $162 (originally $270) Sol and Selene Woven Bag, $50 (originally $80) Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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19-05-2025
I'm T+L's Senior Shopping Writer, and These Are 15 Early Amazon Memorial Day Deals You Can't Pass Up—From $10
As a shopping writer for Travel + Leisure , it should come as no surprise that the bulk of my days are spent combing the internet for the best deals on travel gear and clothing to make my adventures more enjoyable. With Amazon's Memorial Day sale right around the corner, I've already taken to the site to check out its early deals and get a jumpstart on my shopping. After uncovering a slew of markdowns from some of my favorite brands, I'm ready to get my spring purchases out of the way before the weekend even begins. If you, too, don't want to wait to start leveling up your packing lists for your upcoming trips, I've taken the liberty of rounding up the 15 best Amazon deals that I've already added to my cart for my own travels. From the stylish Fjällräven Kånken backpack I've been eyeing since high school to a set of discounted Apple AirTags, you can score everything you need to upgrade your wardrobe and gear collection—with prices starting as low as $10. I'm always on the lookout for a comfy new pair of travel pants, and the wide, elastic waistband and flowy fit of this pair from Ododos sold them for me—not to mention they're now just $20. As a petite traveler, I constantly have to deal with the hem of my pants dragging along where I go, but since this pair comes in four different inseam lengths, that concern will soon be a thing of the past. Plus, while they're lightweight and stretchy, they're also flattering enough that I know I won't wear them only to lounge around my home or sit on a long flight. In fact, they'll easily be dressed up with the right pair of shoes and other accessories. I may even be tempted to snag them in more than one color while they're 26 percent off. I'm of the opinion that you can never have too many AirTags, so I'm taking Memorial Day as an opportunity to refresh my stock so I can add one to my keys, wallet, and other bags I plan on traveling with. This four-pack of tags is currently on sale for $80 and is one of the best ways to keep track of checked luggage, misplaced items, and more. They easily connect to the 'Find My' app on my iPhone so I can accurately see where my belongings are at any given time. Plus, each tag lasts for over a year, so I won't have to keep buying new ones. Comfortable sandals are a must-have when I'm traveling during the summer, and while I'll always swear by my Birkenstock Arizona Sandals, I've been intrigued by the orthotic insoles of this similar pair from KuaiLu. The outsoles are a little more flexible so they'll be a cinch to tuck into my suitcase when I'm not wearing them, while the trio of straps will hold my feet firmly in place without causing irritation. I have high arches, so the impressive support of these sandals instantly caught my eye, especially since they're designed to alleviate pressure on the feet. These versatile sandals will look great with my favorite maxi dresses, denim shorts, and even a bathing suit at the beach, and right now they're on sale for under $30. Not only do matching sets look great, but they're also a comfortable, low-effort outfit to throw on while traveling. The combination of an oversized button-down and a loose-fitting pair of shorts is perfect for the transition from spring to summer, and I especially love that the shorts are made with an adjustable elastic waistband that shouldn't dig into my skin while I'm sitting on the plane for an extended period of time. The army green shade is timeless (and matches with so many other pieces in my closet), and other shoppers have even shared that it 'packs without wrinkling,' which is really all I could ask for when building my dream travel wardrobe. One of my big travel plans for the summer is my first-ever F1 Grand Prix, which means I need to start stocking up on practical gear to bring with me to the track. At the top of my shopping list? A high-quality pair of earplugs to protect my hearing during the three-day event. The best-selling Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs are currently on sale for 25 percent off, and seeing as they're designed for travel, sleep, and everything in between, they're the perfect addition to my suitcase for this trip. Plus, they're lightweight, comfortable, and come with a handy carrying case that will ensure I don't lose them while I'm on the go. I have a number of weddings coming up in the next few months, and since I don't really want to deal with wrinkled clothing every time I get to my destination, I've started looking into travel-friendly garment bags. Fortunately, this option from Modoker is on sale for 23 percent off and is not only a garment bag, but also a duffel with an impressive 45L of storage space. I'll be able to zip my delicate dresses into the exterior of the bag, then fold it up and pack the rest of my belongings inside. It comes with a handy luggage sleeve so I can stack it atop my rolling suitcase with ease, plus its detachable shoulder strap will make it comfy to carry if I'm traveling with this bag only. Travel safety is always my top priority, so I'm taking the Memorial Day sale as a sign to stock up on gear that will give me peace of mind whether I'm traveling solo or with a group. This handy door lock is great for staying in an Airbnb or a hotel to keep out would-be threats since it's easy to use, acting as an extra lock with a reinforced chain. It's ultra-durable, will take up minimal space in my personal item, and will undoubtedly help me sleep a little easier when staying in an unfamiliar place. Noise-canceling headphones are a mainstay in my personal item while traveling, but since I recently broke my old pair, I'm in the market for a new option—and fast. This packable pair from JBL offers an impressive 70 hours of battery life so I never have to worry about losing my podcast or carefully curated travel playlist, and they're so lightweight that they'll be comfy to wear for long hours on end. They're programmed with adaptive noise canceling so I can block out the sounds of crying babies and chatty seatmates in-flight. Their Bluetooth compatibility also means I don't have to stress about cords tangling in my bag when they're packed away. The older I've gotten, the more I've begun to actually care if my clothes are wrinkled. So, aside from investing in more wrinkle-resistant clothing for my travels, I'm also snagging this portable steamer and iron that's compact enough to fit into my suitcase without taking up too much space. The tiny device is fitted with a rotatable handle for easy use, and it will allow me to carefully tend to my clothes without damaging them. It heats up in under five seconds so I can eliminate wrinkles and run out the door, and I'm sure it'll be an asset for all the upcoming weddings I'll be attending. Packing cubes have undoubtedly transformed my suitcase for the better, but I think I'm ready to level up and snag a pair of compression cubes to free up even more luggage space. This four-pack from Bagail comes with several bags of different sizes that will make staying organized a cinch. They're tear-resistant, super lightweight, and have impressive compression capabilities; plus, they come with built-in handles to make them a breeze to remove from a stuffed bag. At just $17, they're practically a steal right now, and they're guaranteed to make packing and unpacking easier than ever. Shorts and an oversized T-shirt have long been my go-to beach or poolside uniform, but I've decided that this is the summer I'm going to level-up my style game with a cool cover up—and this crochet piece is the perfect place to start while it's on sale for under $30. This knit beach dress is incredibly flattering with a mid-thigh cut and loose, flowy sleeves that will still keep me comfy even on toasty summer days. It'll be a no-brainer addition to my suitcase for my trip to Aruba later this year, and while I'm loving it in the simple cream shade, it also comes in 29 other colors and patterns, all of which I adore. I would describe myself as a relatively toasty traveler, but every summer I manage to forget to buy a portable fan to make my experiences more bearable. So, this year I'm pre-emptively snagging the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan, and best of all, it doubles as a portable charger. This compact device is small enough to fit into any pocket of my backpack (or clothes) so I can have it ready for a too-hot train ride or flight, plus it's suitable for up to 19 hours of use. My friend packed this exact fan on a scalding trip to Italy several summers ago, and I was endlessly jealous when she set it up on her nightstand during a night in a room with no air conditioning. Now it's my turn to enjoy the relief from the heat! Sure, my closet is already overflowing with sneakers, but when I caught sight of this stylish pair from Madden Girl in my absolute favorite color combination, I knew I needed them for tromping around New York City this summer. They're fitted with rubber gum soles (a look that's undoubtedly trendy right now) alongside a fabric exterior with the dreamiest pop of color. I'm sure they'll look good with everything from a simple pair of jean shorts to a flowy maxi dress, and at just $40, they're a fraction of the price of similar sneakers on the market now. They've even been lauded by other shoppers as both 'comfortable and stylish,' with one person noting that after 'logging over 10,000 steps,' their feet still 'didn't hurt.' Maxi dresses are perhaps my biggest fashion vice, and when I spotted this stunning patchwork piece from Free People on sale for 33 percent off, my jaw quite literally dropped to the floor. The thick ribbon straps are a gorgeous detail, while the 100 percent cotton construction is guaranteed to be soft against my skin when I'm sightseeing or sitting down for a dinner. I especially love its loose, flowy silhouette and the slightly fitted bust that creates even more visual appeal. It's safe to say I've found my dream dress that strikes the unbeatable balance between feminine and functional. I've been coveting the Fjällräven Kånken backpack since I was in high school, so imagine my thrill in realizing that I'm now an adult and can simply buy one for myself. On sale for 36 percent off in the most delicious butter yellow shade, this sleek backpack is practically made for my summer adventures, and it's about to become my go-to for weekend trips. It's lightweight and surprisingly spacious with an additional easy-access pocket at the front, and it's adorned with the timeless Fjällräven branding. It's even earned a number of reviews from happy shoppers, with one person calling it their 'favorite everyday backpack,' as well as a 'great daypack for travel.' In short, it's everything I've been looking for. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
The Independent
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Festival packing list 2025: What to bring to Reading, Leeds, Glastonbury and more
The weather is finally warming up, and sunshine brings the festival season. Glastonbury, Latitude, Reading and Leeds festivals are all taking place this summer. However, it can be hard to remember everything you need. At best, you forget dry shampoo, at worst, your ticket. That's why a thorough checklist is a must. Whether you're pitching up for the weekend, heading to your favourite day festival in the city or flying abroad for a blowout on the beach, your packing list should span beauty, toiletries, camping gear, clothing and more. While most festival essentials are non-negotiable (think tents, toothbrushes, underwear, sunscreen and reliable shoes), others can make your experience much more pleasant (we're talking cordless hair tools, pyjamas, camping stoves and eye masks). To prevent you from being the person in the group asking to borrow everything, the exhaustive list below includes everything you need for your next festival, whether it's an all-day rave or a four-day camping stint. Festival camping Festival toiletries and beauty Toothpaste Toothbrush Make-up wipes SPF for your face and body Aftersun Dry shampoo Deodorant Hand sanitiser Tampons, sanitary towels or period pants Insect repellent Painkillers Hayfever tablets Plasters Cordless hair tools Make-up Festival clothing Wellies (men's, women's) Cowboy boots Walking boots (men's, women's) Trainers (men's, women's) Summer dresses Waterproof raincoat (men's, women's) Jacket Summer hat Crossbody/bum bag Comfortable bra Sweatshirt Pyjamas Miscellaneous Festival ticket Compact mirror Cards and cash Breakfast bars Wine, spirits and cans Snacks Eye mask Ear plugs Phone charger Disposable camera Reusable water bottle Railcard Best festival essentials Best festival tent – Mountain Warehouse holiday six-person tent: £159.99, Securing a spot in our review of the best tents, our reviewer said that this is the best-value tent you can buy, and perfect for a festival. Tester Sian warns that it won't stand up to heavy rain, but her tests found that this tent has 'three separate bedrooms, each of which can fit a double air bed'. Its air vents and mesh door are great for keeping the tent cool in heatwaves, too. In the end, Sian describes it as 'ideal for a family of four sharing in the summer months, or for heading to a festival with friends.' Dubbed the best budget option in our review of camping mats, this Nhowin self-inflating camping mat is described as a bargain for £30. 'This comfortable mat is lightweight (900g) and compact when rolled up,' they said, adding that 'once inflated using the built-in foot pump, it provides an effective bed with a brilliant pillow included.' Plus, poppers enable you to attach another of these mats to one side, to create a double mattress. The best double option in our round-up of sleeping bags, Outwell's sleeping bag is a cosy cocoon for festival season. 'Two zips make it easy to share this roomy bag, which can also be opened up into a full-sized double duvet that's ideal for glamping or for popping in a campervan. Two built-in pillows are a nice place to rest your head,' our tester said. Generously sized and warm enough for use from spring through to autumn, this bag was loved by our reviewer for its price and comfort. When it comes to chairs, you don't need anything too fancy for festival season. This purse-friendly Pro Action model from Argos will easily do the job and is finished in a bold red hue that will help it stand out in the camping field. You want something light and easy to transport, with this offering folding away into a carry bag with a strap. Plus, it boasts a handy built-in drinks holder and was included in our round-up of the best camping chairs. Our favourite budget travel backpack, the Lifeventure waterproof packable bag is just what you need to haul your essentials to a camping festival. 'It's extremely light and squashes up into its very own pouch, but still felt fabulously comfortable, thanks largely to ergonomically contoured shoulder straps and a hip belt,' our tester said. With a durable, waterproof design and 22l capacity, it ticked all the boxes. If you want enough phone charge to find pals, take pictures and look up set times, a good power bank is a must-have, whether camping at the festival or just heading to one for the day. This nifty Belkin model will get you 78 extra hours of battery life with MagSafe-compatible Apple iPhones and Samsung phones. It ensured our phone was never out of battery during a four-day camping stint – plus, up to three devices can be charged at the same time, through two USB-A ports and one USB-C port. Available in three sleek colours, Belkin's pack looks good, too. Considering you'll spend most of the festival outside in the sun, a good SPF is essential. One of our favourites hails from La Roche-Posay, with its anthelios oil sunscreen praised for ticking every box. Including UVA, UVB and long UVA protection, it's suitable for sensitive skin, and it has a non-greasy and lightweight formula. Our tester found that: 'Reducing shine, we found you'll still get a fresh-faced glow minus any sticky or oily sensation, and it keeps you safe from the sun,' our tester added. It's just as important to top up your body sunscreen – and this SPF 50 is our top pick this summer. 'Designed for 'intense conditions,' the white cream is lightweight and absorbs really quickly and beautifully into the skin, offering high, broad-spectrum protection,' our tester said. Used liberally throughout a 10-day holiday during testing, this bottle should contain more than enough to see you through a festival. If you burn, some aftersun will be a godsend mid-festival. Bioderma's formula came out on top in our round-up of the best aftersun, with our tester lauding the lightweight product for its immediate cooling effect. 'Allantoin and ginkgo biloba gel soothe overheated skin, while patented cellular bioprotection technology works to protect your skin against cell damage from UV rays and other stressors,' they said. Keeping your hair fresh between showers at festivals (or if you're not planning to shower at all), dry shampoo is a must-have toiletry. Batiste's formulas are affordable favourites, and its green tea and chamomile bottle earned a spot in our round-up of the best dry shampoos. Our tester loved how affordable this shampoo is and how kind it was on sensitive scalps. Scandi brand Rains has a cult following for its minimalist yet practical rain-appropriate clothing. Its unisex storm breaker boasts a sporty look and extra wet-weather functionality. Complete with a hood and built-in cap, two-way zipper, doubled-welded pockets and elasticated cuffs, the jacket will ensure you're prepared for whatever the weather throws at you this festival season. One of our favourite pairs of wellington boots, these robust Barbour boots offered a 'flexible fit for movement', and the chunky soles provided good grip while walking. 'There's chic Barbour branding throughout, from the tartan pattern inside to the logo running up the back,' our tester said. A solid, stylish and reliable choice for festivals. Best festival bag – Uniqlo round mini shoulder bag: £14.90, The bag of the moment, Uniqlo's TikTok-viral crossbody bag is perfect for festival season. Roomy, adjustable, affordable and available in an array of fun colours to make a style statement, the styled-up bum bag is just what you need to carry your essentials around the field. Coming in minimalist black, beige and white finishes or playful yellow, red and green, there's a reason why Lyst named it the hottest product in the world. Waking up hungover in a tent is never fun, but a good sleep mask can make the experience a lot less painful. 'Made from polyester, Soap & Glory's mask has a silky feel that's lovely and smooth against the skin, while the extra-long shape wraps around the head and blocks out almost all of the light,' our tester said. Compact phone bags combine fashion and functionality, leaving you hands-free to enjoy the music without compromising your festival outfit. Enter: Jigsaw's sleek leather crossbody. The discreet design leaves just enough room for your phone and cards thanks to internal and external pockets, while the crossbody style leaves you plenty of freedom to move. The sleek leather bag is available in brown and black. If you struggle to get any shut-eye at festivals, make sure to pack some ear plugs for sleeping. Proving you don't have to spend a fortune on good buds, these EarHub plugs impressed our tester. 'These putty-style, soft silicone earplugs are moulded into shape with your fingers and placed over your ear opening (not inserted into the ear canal), forming a sealed covering,' they said, adding that they blocked out sounds better than foam buds. Boasting a 25mm barrel and three temperature settings (160C, 170C, 180C), BaByliss's cordless hair straightener is designed with an ultra-smooth ceramic finish for bouncy, frizz-free curls. A three-hour charge enables up to 40 minutes of use, helping to revive tired hair while camping in a festival field. Plus, it comes with a handy travel case and has an auto-shut-off function for peace of mind. This top-rated reusable water bottle was praised for being everything you could want in a water bottle, without costing a fortune. It's available in four attractive shades of muted blue, pink, black and grey; it has a carry handle, and the double-walled vacuum construction will keep drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24 hours. 'We also love the fact it's not enormous, which makes for easier drinking, and it has a sleek, modern design that makes it look a lot more expensive than it is,' they said. Plus, 10 per cent of each sale goes towards the Life's a Beach charity, which works to eradicate single-use plastic from beaches and waterways. If you want to glam up your festival look, turn your attention to glitter – but make sure it's biodegradable, so it doesn't harm the environment. This Barry M offering is plastic-free and produced from a special film sustainably sourced from plant cellulose, which biodegrades in fresh water.
