Lost on What to Pack for Your Trip Abroad? (The Perfect 30-Item Checklist)

Hello! You’re leaving soon, aren’t you? Just thinking about traveling abroad is so exciting! But have you ever imagined that heart-stopping moment at the airport when you realize, “Oops!” you forgot something?

Packing and unpacking your suitcase, not sure what you need… It can be especially overwhelming for first-timers. I have a sad memory of having my full-sized sunscreen confiscated on my first trip (?).

So today, for your perfect trip, I’ve prepared a list of overseas travel essentials to check meticulously from A to Z. If you just follow this, you won’t have that ‘Oops!’ moment!

Well then, shall we go fill out the checklist together?

🌍 1. [Must-Haves] Passport, Tickets, Money! Never Forget

This is the most basic of basics! But surprisingly, this ‘Essential Trio’ is where people make the most mistakes. You can get almost anything else locally, but without these, the trip itself is impossible.

Passport, tickets (E-tickets), and money (cash and cards) are things you really need to double-check. Make it a habit to check one last time at the front door before you leave! Don’t forget.

Especially your passport expiration date! Many destinations require your passport to be valid for ‘at least 6 months from the departure date,’ so you need the sense to check this well in advance. Also, print or screenshot your flight tickets and accommodation vouchers so you can view them offline!

And what about money? You can’t solve everything with a card, so it’s good to exchange a little local currency in advance (for tips, transportation, etc.) and to store 2-3 internationally accepted cards (like Visa, Mastercard) separately in case of loss.

These days, rechargeable cards like ‘Travel Wallet’ or ‘Travel Log’ are popular because their fees are low! Be sure to look into these too.

Passport & Visa (Check for 6-month validity!)

I really can’t stress this enough. Your passport’s expiration date! Please check it. You also need to check in advance if your destination country requires a visa. Some countries require an Electronic Travel Authorization like the USA (ESTA), Canada (eTA), or Australia (ETA), so you must check and apply at least 1-2 weeks before departure.

Keeping a photocopy of your passport (or a photo of it) and 2 passport-sized photos in a separate place from your passport will also be a huge help if you lose it. Losing your passport… just imagining it is horrible, right? Let’s prepare in advance!

Flight Tickets (E-Tickets) & Accommodation Vouchers

Nowadays, everything is an E-ticket, saved in your email or an app. But just in case the internet is down, ‘offline saving’ is essential. Download it as a PDF, take a screenshot! Or, for an analog feel, printing out a copy is also good.

Especially when immigration asks, “Where are you staying?” an accommodation voucher (booking confirmation) that you can show immediately is a must! Prepare one that clearly shows the hotel name, address, and phone number.

Currency Exchange & International Cards (Travel Wallet, etc.)

For currency exchange, you can use your main bank’s app to get a preferential rate and pick it up conveniently at the airport. But too much cash is risky! I recommend exchanging just enough for immediate local expenses like transportation and food, and using a card for the rest.

That’s where international cards come in! Check for the VISA or MasterCard logo, and be sure to sign the back. The trendy ‘Travel Wallet’ cards let you pre-charge foreign currency via an app and use it like a debit card or withdraw from ATMs locally, which is really convenient.

Bring at least 2 cards in case one gets lost! One in your wallet, and one deep in your suitcase. Smart!

 

Item	Checklist	Notes
Passport/Visa	6+ months validity, Visa/ETA issued	Keep copy & photos separately
Tickets/Vouchers	E-Ticket, Accommodation Voucher (Offline)	Double-check name, date, address
Money (Cash/Card)	Small local currency, 2+ int’l cards	Rechargeable cards (e.g., Travel Wallet) recommended

 

👕 2. Weather & TPO-Based Outfits A to Z

“What should I wear?” This is a dilemma that never ends, even at your destination. Your suitcase space is limited, but you want to take pretty pictures… The most important thing is to pack clothes that match the ‘local weather’ and ‘TPO (Time, Place, Occasion)’.

If you’re going to a hot country and only pack t-shirts and shorts, you’ll be prone to catching a cold from the air conditioning! (Especially in Southeast Asia, the AC indoors is really strong) A thin cardigan or scarf is essential. Conversely, if you’re going to a cold country and only pack thick padding, you’ll be sweating buckets indoors… It’s much smarter to pack several thin layers (like HEATTECH) that you can layer.

And ‘shoes’! Really important. Pretty heels… nice. But traveling might mean walking 20,000 steps a day. You must pack your most comfortable sneakers, and if needed, I recommend adding sandals or slippers.

Are you planning to go to a nice restaurant or see a special performance? Don’t forget to pack one slightly formal outfit, like a dress or a shirt. This is part of the fun of traveling, isn’t it?

A tip for packing light is to pack a variety of tops and stick to 1-2 basic bottoms (jeans, black slacks, etc.) to mix and match. Packing 1-2 more pairs of socks and underwear than the number of travel days is a basic of packing overseas travel essentials!

Checking the local weather is a must! (Hot vs. Cold countries)

Keep checking the local weather from 1-2 weeks before your departure. Apps these days are great, showing real-time weather and even weekly forecasts. For hot countries, a sun-blocking hat, sunglasses, and a thin long-sleeved outer layer are essential!

For cold countries, thermal underwear (HEATTECH), gloves, a scarf, a hat, and non-slip shoes are important. Especially in winter in Europe, the stone floors are really cold on your feet. Don’t forget several pairs of warm socks.

Comfortable Shoes (Sneakers, Sandals)

It’s no exaggeration to say, “The quality of your trip is determined by your shoes.” New shoes? Absolutely not! Wear the most comfortable sneakers that are already broken in. Then, add sandals, slippers, or trekking shoes based on your destination’s characteristics.

Especially when traveling in Southeast Asia, you often have to take off your shoes when entering temples, so easy-to-wear sandals or slippers can be very useful.

Clothes for Special Occasions (Restaurants, Parties)

You can’t just dress comfortably every day! If you plan to go to a nice bar, have reservations at a Michelin restaurant, or go to a club during your trip, pack one outfit that isn’t too bulky but gives a slightly dressed-up feel.

A dress made of wrinkle-free material, or accessorizing a basic shirt (with a scarf, necklace, etc.) is also a good method.

 

Destination Type	Essential Item Examples	TPO Tips
Southeast Asia/Resort	Swimsuit, rash guard, hat, sunglasses, thin outer	Outerwear for indoor AC is a must. No exposure for temple visits (use a scarf).
Europe (Winter)	Thermal wear, thick socks, gloves, scarf, winter boots	Layering is key. It can be hot indoors.
City/Shopping	Comfy sneakers, cross-body bag, casual dress	Prepare for 20k steps/day! Comfy shoes & anti-theft bag.

 

🔌 3. Perfect Electronics Prep (Power Bank, Adapter)

They say you can’t even travel without a smartphone, right? Google Maps, translator, restaurant searches, taking photos… the smartphone has become a travel essential. But what if the battery dies? Just imagining it is dizzying.

A power bank is not an option, it’s a must! When you’re out all day looking at maps and taking pictures, the battery drains really fast. Pack 1-2 with ample capacity, but be sure to check the airline’s regulations.

And did you know that different countries have different electrical outlet shapes? Japan (110V, Type A), Europe (230V, Type C/F), UK (240V, Type G), etc… they’re all different. What you need then is a ‘multi-adapter’! One universal adapter that can be used anywhere in the world, and your worries are over.

If you have a lot of electronics to pack like a camera, laptop, tablet, or hair straightener… it’s a good idea to pack a power strip too. There might only be one outlet in your hotel room! A power strip to charge all these at once is a real life-saver.

However, for items like hair straighteners or hair dryers, make sure to check if they match the local voltage (V)! If it’s not a free-volt (100-240V) product, it won’t work just by plugging in an adapter. In fact, it might break, so be careful!

“Wait! Here’s a pro-tip. Lithium-ion batteries (power banks, laptop batteries, camera batteries, etc.) cannot be sent in checked baggage (the luggage you check in) and must be carried on board. Each airline has restrictions on the number of items or capacity (Wh) per person (usually 5 items under 100Wh, 2 items between 100-160Wh, etc.), so be sure to check your airline’s regulations before departure!”

Smartphone & Charger (Check power bank capacity!)

Smartphone, charging cable, and power bank are a set! It’s good to pack an extra cable in case one breaks. For the power bank, I recommend a generous capacity of 10,000mAh or more.

As mentioned earlier, power banks must! be carried on board. If you put it in your checked baggage, you might have to open your suitcase at the airport and take it out.

Multi-Adapter (Country-specific voltage)

No need to worry, ‘What shape was this country’s outlet?’ Just one universal multi-adapter will do! If you buy one with multiple USB ports, it’s even more convenient as you can charge your smartphone, power bank, and camera at the same time.

If you travel often, buying one of these is really worth the money!

Camera, Laptop, etc. (Optional)

These days, smartphone cameras are so good that if it’s not absolutely necessary, leaving it behind is a good way to lighten your load. But if you’re one of those people who ‘must take high-quality photos!’ then you’ll need to pack your camera, memory card, spare battery, and charger, right?

A laptop… unless you have to work during your trip or need to back up photos right away, honestly, it can just be extra baggage. Think carefully about the purpose of your trip and choose wisely!

🧴 4. Toiletries & First-Aid Kit, Buy Locally? NO!

You might think, “I’ll just buy toiletries at the local drugstore~” but what if they don’t suit your skin? Especially basic products you always use (toner, lotion, cleansing), it’s better to pack them in small containers.

The important thing here is the ‘liquids carry-on regulation’! Only items in containers of 100ml or less, fitting into one 1L transparent zipper bag, are allowed in your carry-on. This rule is really important when packing your overseas travel essentials, so please remember! Anything over 100ml must go into your checked baggage (suitcase).

The same goes for your first-aid kit. It’s good to pack basics like antidiarrheals for traveler’s stomach, digestive medicine, painkillers for sudden headaches, and bandages or ointment since it’s easy to get hurt when you’re excited about traveling.

Especially if you have medication you take regularly, pack more than enough for your trip! And just in case, it’s a good idea to prepare an English prescription. Finding the right medicine for you locally can be surprisingly difficult and stressful.

Oh, and sunscreen! Whether it’s a hot or cold country, if you’re spending a lot of time outside, sunscreen is a 365-day essential, right? Pack plenty and reapply frequently!

Liquids Carry-on Regulation (100ml or less)

Let me emphasize again! Liquids you carry on board (cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc.) must be in ‘individual containers of 100ml or less’, and ‘total 1L or less’. What if you have 50ml in a 150ml container? Not allowed! The container itself must be 100ml or less.

You have to put all of this into one transparent zipper bag (about 20cm x 20cm). If you don’t want it confiscated at the airport security check, prepare travel-sized containers in advance (you can buy them at Daiso!) and put them in your checked baggage or pack them according to the rules!

Basic First-Aid Kit (Digestive, Painkiller, Bandages)

When you travel, the environment and food change, and you’re bound to get sick. It’s a hundred, thousand times better to pack the medicine you normally take than to try and explain “My stomach hurts” at a strange local pharmacy using a translator.

A cold remedy, fever reducer/painkiller, digestive medicine, antidiarrheal, allergy medicine (in case of food allergies), bandages, antiseptic, bug bite cream, and your regular medication! Pack these basics.

Sunscreen & Basic Cosmetics (Use travel containers)

You want to get “the photo of your life” on your trip, but it’s upsetting if your skin breaks out, right? Pack samples of your usual basic cosmetics (toner, lotion, essence, cleansing foam) or put them in travel-sized containers.

Plenty of sunscreen for your face and body! Especially if you’re going to a resort, pack a waterproof product and reapply often to protect your skin.

 

Category	Recommended Items	Detailed Tips
Basic Medicine	Pain/Fever reducer, Digestive, Antidiarrheal, Cold medicine	Prepare medicines that you know work well for you.
First Aid	Bandages (incl. waterproof), Antiseptic, Ointment	Heel bandages are useful as you’ll walk a lot.
Other	Allergy medicine, Bug repellent/bite cream	Prepare based on destination (e.g., Southeast Asia).
Personal Meds	Regular medication (hypertension, diabetes, etc.)	Bring English prescription (must carry on board).

 

✈️ 5. Carry-on Essentials (For a Comfy Flight)

A short 2-3 hour flight might be fine, but for mid- to long-haul flights over 5 hours… how you spend your time on the plane determines your condition for the entire trip. You might think, “Plane = sleeping place,” but getting deep sleep in an economy seat… isn’t easy, is it?

What you need then is the ‘In-flight Trio’! Neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs. Especially for neck pillows, memory foam or cotton-filled ones are much more comfortable than the inflatable air-type. (They take up a bit of space, but…)

And the plane is surprisingly cold and dry! They give you a blanket, but it’s a good idea to pack a thin outer layer (cardigan, hoodie) or a scarf to maintain your body temperature. If your throat gets scratchy from the dry air, wearing a mask also helps.

Your feet get swollen from sitting for a long time, right? Especially on long-haul flights, in-flight slippers can change your quality of life! Take off your shoes and let your feet rest comfortably.

Other than that, packing simple snacks (non-smelly ones!), a mist for dry skin (100ml or less), and earphones (the provided ones might have bad quality) can make for a more pleasant flight.

Neck Pillow, Eye Mask, Earplugs (The Trio)

Must-have items for getting good sleep in a dark cabin! The eye mask blocks light, and the earplugs reduce engine noise and surrounding sounds. The neck pillow prevents your neck from snapping forward when you wake up!

Personally, I strongly recommend ‘noise-canceling’ earphones or headphones. They act as earplugs and you can listen to music, so it’s killing two birds with one stone!

Light Outerwear (It’s cold on the plane!)

No matter how hot the country you’re flying to, the airport and the plane can be chilly or cold due to the AC. If you’re in a t-shirt and shorts, you’re just asking to catch a cold. Be sure to pack a thin, light cardigan, windbreaker, hoodie, or a large scarf in your carry-on bag.

It’s good to cover your knees, drape over your shoulders, or use as a blanket when you sleep. Very useful!

Portable Humidifier or Mask (Prevent dryness)

Drier than a desert, the airplane cabin! We’ve all had that experience of waking up with a parched nose and throat, right? In times like these, just wearing a mask helps maintain humidity and makes it much better.

These days, there are also portable USB humidifiers that you can plug into a small tumbler. Using items like these, you can have a moist and comfortable flight, not one fighting dryness.

📱 6. Must-Have Travel Apps & Digital Prep

As smartphones have become essentials, digital preparation to use them ‘well’ is also necessary. “What if I don’t have data?”, “What if I get lost?” These worries can all be solved if you prepare in advance.

The most important thing is ‘data’! You need to prepare to use the internet locally, right? There are largely 3 ways: buying a local USIM, downloading an eSIM, or renting a Pocket Wi-Fi. Each has its pros and cons, so you need to choose based on your travel style (are you going alone, with many, how much data do you use?).

And ‘map apps’! Google Maps is the truth anywhere in the world. But you might go somewhere with no data, so it’s smart to download ‘offline maps’ of the area you’ll be traveling in advance!

If you’re afraid of the language barrier, ‘translator apps’ (Papago, Google Translate) are also a must! Check if these also support ‘offline translation’ and download the language pack in advance.

Other than that, installing apps for restaurant searches (TripAdvisor, Google Maps reviews), transportation (Uber, Grab, etc. local taxi apps), and travel budget (TrabiPocket, etc.) in advance will make your trip much more comfortable. Be sure to add ‘App Check’ to your overseas travel essentials list!

Google Maps (Save offline maps)

The magic app that turns even those with no sense of direction into travel pros, Google Maps! But it’s useless if you don’t have data. Before you travel, search for the city you’re going to in the Google Maps app and press ‘Download offline map’.

Even without data, as long as you have a GPS signal, you can see your location and the map you saved. Don’t forget to star (save) the places you want to go, like your hotel, restaurants, and tourist spots, in advance!

Translator Apps (Papago, Google Translate)

“How much is this?”, “Where is the bathroom?” You want to say it in the local language, but… it’s hard. That’s when translator apps are a big help. Text translation, voice translation, and even a feature that translates a menu when you take a picture of it!

Especially if you activate the ‘offline translation’ feature in apps like Papago (mainly for Asia) or Google Translate (worldwide) and download the language pack, you can use basic translation without an internet connection, which is really useful.

USIM vs. eSIM vs. Pocket Wi-Fi

The big 3 for data prep! ‘USIM’ is where you buy a local SIM chip and put it in your phone (cheap, can’t use your Korean number). ‘eSIM’ is where you download it via QR code without changing chips (convenient, can use Korean number simultaneously, check supported devices). ‘Pocket Wi-Fi’ is where you carry a Wi-Fi device (multiple people can use, but carrying/charging the device is cumbersome).

Each has clear pros and cons, so prepare in advance from Korea based on your travel style!

 

Method	Pros	Cons	Recommended For
Local USIM	Cheap, various plans	Hassle to swap chip, can’t receive Korean calls	Long-term travelers, solo data users
eSIM	Easy (QR scan), use Korean number	Can be pricier than USIM, limited supported devices	Short-term travelers, solo users needing calls
Pocket Wi-Fi	Multiple users/devices	Must carry/charge device, risk of loss	Groups of 2+, families/friends

 

💡 7. Right Before You Leave! Final Checklist

Okay, you’ve packed your suitcase and your carry-on bag. Before you close that suitcase and say “All done!”, there are a few last things to check. These small things can change the quality of your trip.

First, ‘suitcase weight’! Each airline has different free checked baggage weight allowances. It’s usually around 15kg-23kg for economy, and if you exceed this, you’ll have to pay expensive excess baggage fees at the airport. It’s smart to weigh it at home beforehand or quickly weigh it at an empty counter before heading to your check-in counter!

Also, it’s a good idea to put on a ‘name tag’ or ‘luggage belt’ to recognize your suitcase at a glance. There are many similar suitcases, so it can be confusing when finding your luggage, and it can prevent someone else from taking yours by mistake.

Don’t get so excited about your trip that you forget about your ‘home’, right? You’ll be leaving the house empty for several days, so make sure to check if the gas valve is closed, if you’ve turned off unused lights or unplugged outlets, and if you’ve emptied the food waste!

Checking your transportation to the airport and the time in advance is basic! It’s comfortable to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departure. Let’s do the final overseas travel essentials check meticulously!

Check Suitcase Weight (Baggage Allowance)

“Nah, I won’t go over,” you say, but… there are always people unpacking and repacking at the airport. (Not me, of course…) Low-cost carriers (LCCs) are especially strict with baggage rules. They often don’t overlook even 1kg, so check your airline’s website in advance for the free baggage allowance (weight, number of pieces).

It might be fine on the way there, but on the way back, your luggage often increases due to souvenirs. So, a tip is to pack your bag only 70-80% full when you leave!

Emptying the House (Gas valve, lights, trash)

You can’t be anxious your whole trip wondering, “Did I leave the gas on…?” Before you lock the front door, one last check of the gas valve, unused appliance plugs (especially the TV set-top box!), and light switches!

You need to empty the food waste, of course, but also the regular trash so you don’t come back to an unpleasant smell after your trip. If you’re traveling for a long time, request a temporary stop for milk or newspaper deliveries!

Check Your Route to the Airport (Transportation, Time)

Decide in advance how you’ll get to the airport (airport railway, limousine bus, car, taxi) and check the timetable or travel time. Especially for morning flights, you must check if there’s transportation running in the early morning.

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours in advance! If you want to do duty-free shopping or visit the lounge, you’ll have to go even earlier, right? There’s nothing more frustrating than missing your flight because you’re late!

❓ 8. Overseas Travel Essentials FAQ (30 Questions)

Q1. Can I put my power bank in my checked suitcase?

A1. Absolutely not! Power banks (lithium-ion batteries) must be carried in your ‘carry-on’ bag due to explosion risk. If you put it in your checked baggage, it will 100% be flagged, and you’ll have to open your bag.

Q2. For the 100ml liquids rule, is it based on the container size or the content amount?

A2. It’s based on the ‘container’ size. Even if you have 50ml of content in a 150ml container, it’s not allowed. The container itself must be 100ml or less, and all these containers must fit into one 1L transparent zipper bag.

Q3. How much money should I exchange?

A3. Exchanging your entire travel budget into cash is not recommended due to the risk of loss. It’s efficient to exchange just enough for immediate local expenses like transportation, tips, and small payments (street food, etc.) in small bills, and use an international card (credit card, Travel Wallet, etc.) for the rest.

Q4. My passport expires in 5 months. Can I still travel?

A4. Most countries require ‘at least 6 months’ of passport validity from the date of entry or departure. If you only have 5 months left, you could be denied entry. You must check the entry requirements of your destination country before traveling and renew your passport if necessary.

Q5. USIM, eSIM, or Pocket Wi-Fi – which is best?

A5. There’s no single answer. If you’re a solo traveler and want something cheap, ‘USIM’ is good. If receiving calls/texts to your Korean number is important, ‘eSIM’ (check supported devices) is good. If you’re traveling with 2 or more people and using multiple devices, ‘Pocket Wi-Fi’ is advantageous. Choose based on your travel style.

Q6. Do I really need a prescription for my first-aid medicine?

A6. Over-the-counter medicines like cold remedies or digestive aids are fine. However, for prescription medications (like for high blood pressure, diabetes) or psychotropic drugs, it’s safe to bring an English prescription (or a doctor’s note). You may be asked to prove it at immigration.

Q7. Is a hardshell or softshell suitcase better?

A7. Each has its pros and cons. ‘Hardshell’ cases are durable and waterproof but can crack on impact. ‘Softshell’ cases are lightweight and flexible, allowing you to pack more (expandable), but the fabric can get dirty or be cut. Choose based on your personal preference.

Q8. The hotel says it has shampoo and conditioner. Should I still pack them?

A8. Most hotels provide amenities, but the quality might not be great (making your hair stiff), or some places (especially in Europe) don’t provide them for environmental reasons. If you have sensitive skin or your usual products are important, I recommend packing them in travel-sized containers.

Q9. Is a multi-adapter really necessary?

A9. If your destination country uses the same 220V, round 2-pin (Type C/F) outlets as Korea, you don’t need one (e.g., most European countries). But if you’re going to countries that use different standards like Japan (110V), USA (120V), UK (240V, 3-pin), or parts of Southeast Asia (3-pin), it’s essential. It’s convenient to have one universal multi-adapter.

Q10. What are the size regulations for carry-on bags (suitcases)?

A10. It varies slightly by airline, but usually, the sum of the three dimensions (width, length, height) is within 115cm, and the weight is 7kg-10kg or less (e.g., a 20-inch carry-on). Low-cost carriers (LCCs) tend to check this regulation more strictly, so be sure to check your airline’s policy before boarding.

Q11. Do I really need to buy travel insurance?

A11. It’s not legally required, but I strongly recommend it! It can compensate for financial losses from unexpected situations like getting sick or injured, having your phone or belongings stolen or damaged, or flight delays. You can greatly reduce your travel anxiety for the price of a few cups of coffee.

Q12. How can I pack clothes to save space?

A12. Rolling your clothes is a tip to reduce wrinkles and save space. For bulky items (padding, coats), using vacuum-sealed compression bags is also good. Another tip is to use the space inside your shoes to store socks or underwear!

Q13. Do I really need to print my E-ticket (flight ticket)?

A13. Most airports accept mobile boarding passes or E-ticket screens (screenshots, PDFs). However, some countries (especially in Southeast Asia, South America) often require a printed E-ticket as proof of a return ticket (out-ticket) during immigration. Just in case, it’s good to print one copy or save it securely as a PDF.

Q14. Is it okay to just bring a credit card?

A14. Even in regions where card payments are common like Europe or the Americas, there are surprisingly many places that only accept cash, such as markets, small shops, and ticket machines. Also, in case your card is lost or the magnetic strip is damaged, it’s safest to keep minimal cash and at least 2 cards stored separately.

Q15. How do I carry on liquids (alcohol, cosmetics) bought at the duty-free shop?

A15. Liquids purchased at the airport’s duty-free shop (past security) can be carried on board even if they are over 100ml, as long as they are sealed in the ‘STEB (Security Tamper-Evident Bag)’ provided by the duty-free shop. However, if you are transiting (connecting), be careful as they might be confiscated according to the transit airport’s regulations.

Q16. Can I pack gochujang (Korean chili paste) and cup noodles when traveling abroad?

A16. Yes, most countries allow them. You can pack items like tube-type gochujang, packaged kimchi, and cup noodles in your checked baggage. However, some countries like Australia and New Zealand are very strict about importing meat products (like in ramen soup) or agricultural products, so be sure to check the prohibited items list before traveling to those countries.

Q17. How should I store swimsuits or wet clothes?

A17. Packing several ‘zipper bags’ or ‘vinyl pouches’ when you travel is really useful. You can use them for multiple purposes, like storing wet swimsuits or clothes, putting in wet toiletries, or even packing shoes you’ve worn.

Q18. Can I bring an empty suitcase? (For shopping)

A18. Yes, you can. However, even an empty suitcase counts as one piece of luggage and must comply with the airline’s weight and size regulations. Alternatively, packing a ‘folding bag’ or ‘duffel bag’ inside your suitcase and using it when your luggage increases on the way back is also a good method.

Q19. My hair dryer or straightener might not work locally?

A19. Yes, that can happen! It’s because the voltage (V) is different. If you bring a Korean (220V) product to a 110V country (like Japan, USA), it won’t work or will work very weakly without a ‘voltage converter (transformer)’. Conversely, if you plug a 110V product into a 220V outlet, it might burn out. Check if your product is ‘free-volt (100-240V)’, and if not, use the one provided by the hotel or pack a travel-specific one.

Q20. Can I use Wi-Fi on the plane?

A20. Recently, many airlines (especially flag carriers, long-haul routes) offer ‘in-flight Wi-Fi’ services for a fee. However, the speed isn’t as fast as on the ground, and the plans (hourly, by data) vary, so check your airline’s service policy in advance. It’s usually good enough for simple messages like KaTalk.

Q21. Do I really need to pack a copy of my passport?

A21. Strongly recommended. If you lose your original passport, a copy is a great help in the reissuing process or for identification. Print 1-2 copies (or passport photos) and store them separately from your passport (in your suitcase, etc.), and also save a photo on your smartphone or in the cloud (email, etc.).

Q22. Is bug repellent essential for Southeast Asia?

A22. Yes, it’s good to pack it. Especially if you have a lot of activities in forests or outdoors, the risk of mosquito or bug bites is high. It’s good to prepare bug repellent (spray, bracelet-type, etc.) and bite cream to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.

Q23. Should I pack slippers for the hotel?

A23. Most hotels provide disposable slippers, but many youth hostels, Airbnbs, or some European hotels do not. Also, if you feel the hotel carpet is iffy, packing a pair of light personal slippers (which can double as in-flight slippers) is a good idea.

Q24. Is sunscreen included in the 100ml liquid rule?

A24. Yes, it is. Sunscreen in cream, gel, or spray form is classified as a liquid. To carry it on board, it must be in a container of 100ml or less. Products over 100ml must be sent in checked baggage (suitcase).

Q25. Are there benefits to getting an “International Student ID”?

A25. Yes! If you are a student under 30, consider getting an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). In many countries, especially in Europe, you can get discounts on admission to museums, art galleries, and historical sites, and sometimes even on transportation or accommodation. You can enjoy benefits worth more than the card’s issuing fee.

Q26. I’m worried about pickpockets. Any precautions?

A26. Unfortunately, some areas like Europe have many pickpockets. A cross-body bag or hip-sack worn to the front is recommended, and putting a small lock or safety pin on the zipper is also a good idea. The safest way is to keep your passport and emergency cash in a ‘money belt’ or ‘security wallet’ worn under your clothes.

Q27. Can I bring a tumbler or water bottle?

A27. Yes, an empty tumbler or empty water bottle can be carried on board. After passing through airport security, you can fill it up with water from a water fountain near the gate to drink on the plane. (The water provided on the plane can be too cold or not enough). It’s also useful locally instead of buying water.

Q28. Can a camera tripod be carried on board?

A28. According to regulations, if its folded length is 60cm or less, it’s often allowed in the carry-on. However, it can be refused based on the judgment of the airline or airport security team, who might consider it a ‘weapon’ (especially if the ends are sharp). I recommend checking it as baggage to be safe.

Q29. Do disposable sheet masks fall under the 100ml liquid rule?

A29. The essence in the sheet mask is also considered a liquid. However, a small amount like 1-2 sheets is usually allowed through without issue. But, just in case, the safest bet is to put them in your checked baggage, not your carry-on.

Q30. How do I store my luggage on the last day of the trip?

A30. Most hotels and hostels will store your luggage for free even after you check out. For Airbnb, you’ll need to ask the host. If storage at your accommodation is difficult, you can use a ‘paid luggage storage (coin lockers, etc.)’ at a local train station or terminal, or look into a ‘luggage delivery/storage service’ in advance.

 

Phew! It really seems like we’ve packed everything meticulously, right? If you make a list and check things off one by one like this, you’ll be able to prepare perfectly without forgetting anything.

Of course, this list isn’t the *only* answer. You’ll need to adjust by adding or removing things based on your travel style or destination, right?

But the most important travel essential of all is an ‘excited heart’ and ‘readiness to have fun’, isn’t it?

As much as you’ve prepared, I hope you come back full of unforgettable, happy memories. Bon Voyage!