Everything I pack for life on the move — no checked bag needed
I used to be a chronic overpacker. Like, “I might need this third pair of shoes in case I go salsa dancing in Barcelona” levels of overpacking. Spoiler: I never went salsa dancing, and I definitely resented dragging that bag up a fourth-floor walk-up with no elevator.
After bouncing between cities, countries, and coworking spaces for the past couple years, I’ve finally dialed in my packing routine. I now have a list that fits in a carry-on, keeps me comfy, and covers both work and play.
If you’re just getting started as a digital nomad or trying to travel lighter, this is the list I wish I had from day one.
The Bag
You really only need one solid carry-on: something lightweight that fits overhead but also holds your life.
🔗 Travelpro Platinum Elite – Expandable, sleek, and built like a tank. I am a hardside luggage die hard fan and have love my Travelpro forever!
Work Gear I Can’t Travel Without
This is my “mobile office” setup. Just enough to be productive without hauling around a full tech stack.
- Laptop + Charger – I use a MacBook Air, but any light + reliable machine works.
- 🔗 Laptop Stand – Packs down flat and saves your neck.
- 🔗 Foldable Bluetooth keyboard + mouse – Game changer when working for hours in cafes.
- 🔗 Anker Power Bank – Because outlets are never where you need them.
- 🔗 Universal Adapter – One plug that works basically everywhere.
- 🔗 Noise-canceling headphones – Lifesaver for loud hostels, crying babies, or focus time.
Tip: I keep all my tech in a flat zip pouch so I can just pull it out at airport security without digging.
What I Actually Wear
The secret? Pack like you’re doing laundry every 5–7 days and keep things layer-friendly.
- 4–5 shirts (mix of t-shirts, tanks, maybe one “nicer” one)
- 2-3 bottoms (usually 1 pair of pants + 1 shorts or skirt)
- 1 light layer (jacket, hoodie, or packable rain shell)
- 2 comfy pairs of leggings or joggers
- Swimsuit
- Pajamas
- 5–7 pairs of underwear
- 2–3 pairs of socks
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 1 pair of sandals
I go for neutrals with a couple fun pieces. Bonus if stuff can be worn in multiple settings (beach, hiking, coworking, dinner).
Toiletries (All Travel-Size, Obviously)
Keep it tight. You’ll find most things abroad, but here’s what I always bring:
- Face wash, moisturizer, SPF
- Shampoo/body wash in refillable bottles
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Razor + small deodorant
- Period stuff (in some places it’s hard to find tampons or cups)
- Basic meds (ibuprofen, allergy meds, melatonin)
- Prescription meds (if you are traveling for an extended period of time make sure to chat with your doctor to ensure you have enough to last)
I pack it all into a hanging toiletry bag so I can hang it in hostel bathrooms or tiny Airbnbs with no counter space.
Random Stuff I Always End Up Needing
These are the non-obvious MVPs of my bag:
- Laundry kit – I carry sink-friendly detergent sheets and a tiny clothesline.
- Reusable shopping bag – Good for groceries, beach, or surprise picnic invites.
- Sunglasses, notebook, Kindle, extra passport photos, earplugs.
Before You Jet
Stuff I always check off before a new country:
- Scan and save passport + ID to the cloud
- Check visa and travel insurance situation
- Notify your bank (so they don’t block your card mid-burrito)
- Download offline maps + translator app
- Back up your laptop and phone (trust me)
Final Thoughts
If it doesn’t fit in your carry-on, you probably don’t need it. Traveling light makes everything easier. Move faster, skip baggage claim, and spend less time worrying about your stuff and more time living.
Everyone’s packing style is different, but this list has kept me sane, productive, and comfortable from Cartagena to London and everywhere in between.