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25 Top Girls Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

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Traveling is a life experience you’ll likely never forget. You want to be well-packed to prepare for all of the adventures that await you no matter where you're headed. It could be summer camp, the beach, or a foreign country, this list will help you pack like a pro. We've included our favorite gear that makes traveling easier and items that a girl on the go shouldn't be without.

Table of contents
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What Should Girls Pack for a Trip?

  • 1. Packing Cubes

    Hero Packing cubes

    Packing cubes are so helpful at keeping all of your things together and organized. This set of five packing cubes is perfect for packing and organizing your clothes, toiletries, electronics, and shoes. They even have a notecard holder on the outside so you can write down and see exactly what's in each cube without even having to open them. In addition to the five cubes, this set also comes with two handy laundry/shoe bags to keep your clean and dirty clothes separate.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Duffel Bag or Suitcase

    Duffel Bag or Suitcase

    Depending on where you’re headed, one of the most important things you need to bring is your suitcase. If you’re off for a weekend adventure, go for a backpack or an overnighter duffel like this one. If you’re trip is a week or longer, think about getting a rolling suitcase and just bringing a smaller carry on.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Magenta travel towe

    A quick-dry travel towel is perfect for any trip thanks to its versatility. Not only can you use it to dry off after going for a swim or having a shower, it's also great for hiking and keeping sweat our of your eyes, and for sitting on at the park or the beach. They're super compact and will easily fit into your purse or day bag, they dry way faster than a normal towel, and they come in a variety of cute colors.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 4. A Mix-and-Match Wardrobe

    A Mix-and-Match Wardrobe

    The best trick for packing light is bringing clothes that can multitask. For example, by bringing solid shirts in soft colors, you can re wear the same one over and over and with different bottoms and accessories. Try to bring items belonging to the same color scheme so that you can mix and match separates to create cohesive, fun outfits for every day of your trip.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Neck Wallet

    HERO Neck Wallet

    A neck wallet is the safest place to keep your valuables when you're traveling. Unlike keeping a wallet in your pocket or purse where your things can easily get stolen, a neck wallet can be worn around your neck and discreetly under your shirt where it's much less likely to get taken. This neck wallet has multiple zippered compartments to fit your phone, cash, bank cards, and ID so you have everything you need in one handy place.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Umbrella

    Your travel bag isn't well-packed until it includes a travel umbrella. Having a good travel umbrella means that you can continue to to get out, explore, and do most of the things you'll want to do on your trip even if it rains. This umbrella is excellent for travel because not only is it compact, but it's also made with the best waterproof and windproof materials so that up to two people can stay dry underneath.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 7. The Right Shoes

    The Right Shoes

    You’ll probably want to pack two or three pairs of shoes, depending on the length of your trip. These girls’ shoes are comfortable, stylish, and ultra durable for lots of exploring! Since Converse can match with almost any outfit imaginable, you’ll probably end up packing less shoes overall. You truly can’t go wrong with these.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. Cooling Towel

    towel pink

    From summer camps to summer vacations, you may likely be soaking up the sun on your trip. While a little bit of sunshine is good for a tan, after a while it can start to feel uncomfortable. Bring a long a cooling towel whenever you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. All you have to do is wet it, wring it out, and the towel instantly becomes 20-30 degrees cooler than the outside temperature and so refreshing.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Colorful Accessories

    Colorful Accessories

    Why not spice up your vacation outfits? Bringing colorful accessories will let your personality shine through, especially if you’re packing mainly basics otherwise! This fun scarf can be paired with a plain shirt, jeans, or even a sundress.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 10. Toiletries/ Makeup Bag

    Toiletries/ Makeup Bag

    You’re going to want a container to keep your toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, shampoo and conditioner organized. If they’re in their own bag, you won’t risk them spilling liquid onto your clothes! This one is cute and compact.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. Bras in Neutral Colors

    Bras in Neutral Colors

    To travel as light as possible, try to bring undergarments that can be worn under anything. A skin-tone bra can go seamlessly underneath shirts of any color, whereas a hot pink one can definitely not! This bra is neutral and functional… perfect for traveling.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. Extra Underwear

    Extra Underwear

    If you overpack anything, let it be underwear! You can’t go wrong with stuffing a few extra pairs into your suitcase pocket. You’ll be thankful if your plane gets delayed and you have to spend an extra day away from home!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 13. Sunglasses

    Sunglasses

    Look ultra cool and chic while sightseeing with your travel buddies. Even in cloudy weather, UV rays can be strong and damaging to your eyes. These shades will protect your eyes, and give you that frequent-flyer-jet-setter look!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 14. Non Valuable Jewelry

    Non Valuable Jewelry

    It’s a good idea to travel with jewelry that wouldn’t break your heart if it were to go missing. There are lots of inexpensive necklaces and bracelets on the market these days that will make a statement without breaking the bank.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Lifeproof Phone Case

    Lifeproof Phone Case

    Don’t leave home without a sturdy phone case. This one is waterproof, drop proof, comes with a screen protector, and is super heavy duty. You’ll breathe easier on your trip if you know your phone is protected! This one has good reviews and comes in a variety of colors.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Wallet or Clutch

    Wallet or Clutch

    You’ll want somewhere to store your souvenir money, ticket stubs, and other little mementos that you collect during your trip. This leather one is stylish and multifunctional. Throw it in your purse or backpack and you’re ready to go.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 17. Zen Coloring Book

    Zen Coloring Book

    On long plane or car rides, nothing kills time and calms your mind like a zen coloring book! They are super fun, very detailed and totally mesmerizing. This coloring book promises to engages artistic expression, provide creative freedom, promote wellness and stimulate the senses!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. Journal

    Journal

    Keeping a travel journal is one of those things you’ll thank yourself for down the road! You can write all about your travel destination, the people you’re meeting, the foods you’re trying, and it’ll help you relax at the end of the day. It’s good to reflect on all the crazy experiences you’ll have while traveling.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 19. Phone Charger

    Phone Charger

    Don’t let your phone die out! Your phone is so important these days for directions, staying in touch with friends, taking pictures, social media, and literally everything else. Make sure to bring an extra cable or two!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Travel Insurance

    travelinsurance.com

    Whenever you go on a a trip it's important to have travel insurance. It's helpful in so many ways like if you get sick, have any trip cancelations, or if you have something get lost or stolen. There are so many travel insurance plans out there, it can be overwhelming. We like to use TravelInsurance.com to compare policies from the top companies to find one that fits our needs for each trip.

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com

  • 21. Daypack

    Daypack

    Stop storing all your things in your mom’s purse, and bring a daypack instead. That way you can bring along everything you need for a day of exploring a new city, and even have enough room for your emergency rain jacket. This particular backpack has pockets for all your things, and comes in a bunch of awesome colors.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 22. Universal Travel Adapter

    Adapter Plug Ports

    If you're going on a big and exciting international trip, you'll likely need a travel adapter in order to charge your devices or use any electronics like a hair straightener or curling iron. A universal travel adapter will have you covered in most countries. This one also has two USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

    how a vpn works

    A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is always great to have when traveling and connecting to public wifi networks such as those in hotels, Airbnbs, cafes, and restaurants. A VPN works to keep all of your online information private and safe from hackers who may want to steal information like your credit card numbers or confidential passwords. A VPN like NordVPN also works great if you're traveling abroad and wan't to access a website or certain Netflix shows that aren't available where you are.

    View NordVPN.com Options

  • 24. Headphones

    Headphones

    These colorful headphones are perfect for when you want to zone out on the plane or in the car, or jam out to Justin Bieber. These ones are noise cancelling, high quality, but not too pricey. Don’t leave home without them!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 25. Mini Hair Straightener

    Mini Hair Straightener

    If doing your hair helps you feel like the best version of yourself, you may want to bring along a styling tool that is small enough to fit in your carry on. You can rock beach waves, curls, or straight and stylin’ hair with this mini ceramic straightener. Perfect for preparing for a night out.

    View on Amazon.com

What Girls Should Wear on Vacation

When packing, less is always more. Like I said before, bringing items that are in the same color schemes is a great idea, so that you can mix and match to create unique outfits every day. It obviously depends on where you’re headed, but dressing in layers is always a bright idea. For a car or plane trip, wear comfortable clothes that you can re-wear throughout your trip so that you don’t overpack!

What NOT to Bring

  • 1. Hair Dryer

    Almost every hotel has one these days! Even Airbnbs and hostels usually have a few that float around the facility. If you’re feeling brave, let go of your hair insecurities and let it air dry.

  • 2. Unnecessary Electronics

    I know it can be very tempting to bring along your laptop or tablet,
    but it might be a good idea to take some time to get away from computers and video games. Live in the moment and unplug for a bit!

  • 3. Money Belt

    Lots of people will tell you to bring a money belt when traveling internationally, but you really don’t need it if you’re smart and keep an eye out. Keep your wallet in a safe place (like a cross-body bag or neck wallet) while you’re out and about. Keep your passport and valuables locked up in a safe at all times in the hotel.

  • 4. Your Own Bedding

    Chances are, your hotel will have pillows, blankets… the works! Unless you’re camping, leave the bedding at home. If you’re worried about bedbugs or are extra hygiene-conscious, I would recommend bringing a sleeping bag liner. They fold down super small (easy to pack) and will save you some stress!

  • 5. TSA Requirements

    Take a look at the TSA requirements if you’re flying so you don’t get stuck in security!

FAQs About Packing for a Trip

  • 1. How can I plan the ultimate girls’ getaway weekend?

    Take a look at Skyscanner.com and set an alert for cheap flights to where you want to go. If you’re road tripping, use the Roadtrippers app to find amazing hidden gems off the beaten path!

  • 2. Any tips for female travellers?

    Never let anyone discourage you from going somewhere or doing something just because of your gender. That being said, definitely take the necessary precautions if you’re traveling to countries that haven’t caught up with the whole gender-equality thing like India and Myanmar.

  • 3. Are there any places where it is unsafe for females to travel alone?

    Not necessarily with the right precautions, but definitely do a google search before you plan your trip.

  • 4. Any tips for curing downtime boredom?

    During downtime, you could read, listen to music or podcasts, draw, or do crossword puzzles or MadLibs. I always like to bring a deck of cards with me to play games with my travel buddies! Apples to apples is fun too.

  • 5. I always break out when I travel. How can I keep my skin healthy on the road?

    Bring everything you normally use on your skin with you on your trip. The dry airplane air and weird foreign food definitely don’t do your skin any favors. Face masks are a great idea, and always use a face-specific sunscreen!

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