The digital nomad packing list - what to pack for long term trips
If you're preparing for a long-term trip as a digital nomad and stressing over what to pack because you don’t want to forget anything important, this guide will be your go-to checklist. Here is everything you need to pack for your trip when working remotely.
But first, let’s get the basics out of the way:
You’ll often hear people say “PACK LESS.” We are not those people. As digital nomads, your suitcase or backpack will become your home. I like to take things that make me feel at home. I would rather take a bit too much than too little.
Disclaimer: You can always buy things at your destination, so don't worry too much about forgetting something. Every traveler is different and has different needs, and the perfect packing list varies by destination. We tried to make this list as applicable to anyone and for any destination. Let’s get into it.
Important Documents
Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Keep both digital and physical copies.
Bank card: Bring a bank card that works internationally and consider having a backup card in case of emergencies. We use International cards like Wise and Bunq.
Insurance: Carry travel insurance documents to cover any (medical) emergencies. We recommend using a reliable travel insurance provider like Safetywing.
International driver’s license: If you plan to drive abroad, get an international driver’s license. It’s recognized in many countries and can be useful even if you don't plan on driving regularly.
Visa: Check visa requirements for your destination and carry the necessary visas. Keep copies of all visa documents.
Boarding passes: We like to print these out so we have them with us at all times.
Vaccination records: Carry proof of any required vaccinations.
Emergency contact information: Have a list of emergency contacts.
Cash (in multiple currencies if possible): Carry some cash for emergencies.
Copies of important documents: Keep copies of your passport, visa, insurance, etc.
Passport photos: Carry a few extra passport photos for visa applications and other needs.
Travel gear
Suitcases and backpacks
Day bag (we use our camera bag)
Small bag
Packing cubes
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow
Travel towel
Reusable shopping bag
Small locks for luggage
Snacks
Multi-tool
Deck of cards or travel games
Virus
Spark
Exploding Kittens
Earplug
Sleeping mask
Tech
Laptop and charger
Smartphone and charger
E-reader/Tablet
Mouse and/or keyboard
Camera gear: Find a detailed list of everything that’s in our camera bag here
Chargers
Remote work essentials
Notebook and pens
Planner or journal
Business cards
Portable laptop stand
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Clothing
This depends on the type of traveler you are and the destinations you will be visiting. It’s also where we have a controversial opinion as we don’t believe in minimalistic packing as a digital nomad as your suitcase or backpack will become your home and this won’t just be a two-week holiday where it doesn’t matter if you forget anything or wear the same clothing every day. For example, I (Mila) pack at least a month’s worth of underwear because sometimes finding a place to do your laundry is scarce and I don’t want to run out of clean clothes. Here’s a list of things to consider:
Tops
Long-sleeves
Sweatshirts/Hoodies
Jacket
Pants and shorts
Underwear and socks
Sleepwear
Swimwear
Walking shoes
Flipflops
Dress shoes
Hat
Sunglasses
Belts
Workout clothes
Rain gear
Hygiene
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Razor and shaving cream
Deodorant
Skincare products
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hairbrush
Blow dryer
Hair styling tools like curling irons
Nail clippers
Hair ties/Clips
Dental floss
Makeup
Hair gel or other hair styling products
Tweezers
Menstruation products
Condoms
First aid kit
Medications
Betadine
Bandages
Pain Relievers like Ibuprofen
Allergy medications
Motion sickness pills
DEET/Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Diarrhea medication
Malaria pills
Altitude sickness pills
Tick remover
Tape for medical and general use
Gauze pads
Wound cleaning wipes
Blister treatment
Thermometer
Multivitamins and supplements
Apps to download
VPN subscription: We use Surfshark as our VPN. You can get 3 extra months for free.
Cloud storage subscription: Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.
Online banking apps: We use Wise.
Uber and/or other online taxi apps: We like to research these, download them, and create an account in advance so we can immediately book our exportation upon arrival.
Google authenticator: For two-factor authentication.
Entertainment apps
Netflix
Audible
Spotify
Insurance app: We recommend SafetyWing.
Trello: to keep track of your travels or other projects.
Google Translate: You can even download certain languages for offline use.
Booking apps
Booking.com
Agoda
Airbnb
Google Maps: You can even download maps for offline use.
eSIM or internet provider app: We recommend Airalo.
Currency converter: For real-time currency conversion rates.
Extra
Everybody has those abnormal things we travel with that we love and that make us feel at home anywhere in the world. This will be different for everyone but here is a list of random stuff we take:
House slippers
Coffee maker
Milk frother
Coffee powder
Oat milk
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