A practical way to pack for any trip: build one base list, adjust it for the destination, and check the carry-on rules that most often cause problems at security.

Start with a base packing list

Most trips share the same core items: documents, toiletries, chargers, medicines and a few changes of clothes. Writing that list once saves you from rebuilding it before every trip and makes it easier to spot what is missing.

A few tips for keeping the base list useful:

• Group items by bag (carry-on, checked, day pack) so you pack each bag in one pass.
• Keep a short “always in my carry-on” section for documents, medicines, chargers and spare batteries.
• After each trip, remove anything you didn’t use and add anything you had to buy on the road.

What changes for remote or lesser-known destinations

Smaller towns, national parks and rural regions often have weaker mobile coverage, fewer shops and fewer card terminals than large cities. Your base list stays the same, but a few additions matter more.

Offline maps and information

Download maps for the area before you leave Wi-Fi. Google Maps lets you save an area to your phone and use it when you’re offline, but downloaded maps need updating before they expire, and offline maps can’t be downloaded in some countries or regions. Our Trip-Planning Apps guide compares offline map options.

Also save copies of your bookings, the address of your accommodation and an emergency contact number in a place you can open without a connection.

Some cash, and a plan for paying

Card payments are not always available in remote areas. The U.S. FDIC suggests you carry only enough cash for local transit, tips and other small expenses and ask your bank before you travel about fees such as ATM or foreign transaction fees. For somewhere with few ATMs, plan where you will get cash before you arrive.

Layers for changeable weather

Mountain areas, coasts and deserts can change temperature quickly during a single day. Layers (a base layer, a warm mid layer and a waterproof outer layer) let you adjust without carrying a heavy coat. Check the forecast for the specific area, not only the nearest city.

Power and charging

Pack a charger for each device, a plug adapter for your destination’s socket type, and a portable power bank if you will be away from outlets for long periods. Power banks must go in your carry-on (see the rules below).

A basic first-aid and health kit

The U.S. CDC’s Pack Smart checklist advises bringing health items with you, since the quality of items bought overseas cannot be guaranteed. Its list includes first-aid supplies such as a digital thermometer, bandages and oral rehydration salts, along with your prescription medicines. It also recommends carrying copies of all prescriptions and your health insurance card and documents.

Carry-on rules that commonly trip people up

Liquids: the TSA 3-1-1 rule

For flights departing U.S. airports, the TSA limits liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags: the carry-on quantity is limited to 3.4 ounces each placed in one quart-sized bag, with one bag permitted per passenger. That is about 100 milliliters per container.

There are exceptions for medically necessary liquids. For example, TSA allows formula, breast milk and juice in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in carry-on baggage, and these do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

Other countries set their own liquid rules for flights from their airports, so check the rules for each airport on your route, including connections.

Power banks and spare lithium batteries

The U.S. FAA states that spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage only. If your carry-on is taken at the gate or planeside, all spare lithium batteries and power banks must be removed from the bag and kept with you.

Other points from the FAA:

• Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery. With airline approval, you may carry up to two spare larger lithium ion batteries (101–160 Wh).
• Battery terminals must be protected from short circuit, for example by keeping batteries in retail packaging, taping the terminals or using a battery case.
• Devices with rechargeable lithium batteries can be checked only if they are completely powered off.

The watt-hour rating is usually printed on the battery or power bank. If it isn’t, check the manufacturer’s documentation before you fly.

Airlines and countries differ

Government rules set the minimum. The FAA notes that many airlines, both domestic and international, may have stricter quantity and Wh limits and advises: check with your air carrier for its specific restrictions before traveling. The same applies to bag size and weight limits, which vary by airline and fare type.

Quick pre-departure check

• Base list printed or saved, with trip-specific items added.
• Offline maps and booking copies downloaded.
• Some local cash planned, bank asked about fees.
• Liquids in containers of 100 ml or less, in one clear bag.
• Power banks and spare batteries in your carry-on, terminals protected.
• Medicines and prescription copies in your carry-on.

Rules change. Confirm current liquid, battery and baggage rules with your airline and the security authority at each airport on your route before you travel.