After 15 years of leading tours, our guides have seen every packing mistake — and perfected a system that fits two weeks into a carry-on.
Start With the 5-4-3-2-1 Rule
For a week away: five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes (wearing one), two layers, one hat. Everything in a single color family so every piece matches. Lay it on the bed first — then remove one outfit. You won't miss it.
The Non-Negotiables
- · Documents pouch: passport, insurance card, bookings printed and offline, two passport photos.
- · Health kit: prescriptions in original bottles, blister plasters, rehydration salts, pain relief.
- · Tech core: universal adapter, power bank, offline maps downloaded, photocopies in the cloud.
- · Comfort layer: packable down or fleece — planes, deserts and mountain evenings all surprise you.
Pack by Trip Type
City breaks reward one pair of broken-in walking shoes and a crossbody bag with a zip. Beach escapes need reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag and a sarong that doubles as blanket, towel and cover-up. Mountain tours demand layers, not bulk: merino base, fleece mid, waterproof shell.
Guide tip: the laundry trick
On trips over 10 days, pack for seven and plan one laundry stop — hotel services or a local laundromat. It halves your bag and costs less than an overweight fee.
What to Leave Behind
"Just in case" outfits, full-size toiletries (buy local — it's part of the fun), more than one book (use an e-reader), and anything you can't afford to lose. If you wouldn't cry over losing it, don't pack it.
Join a Solstice Journeys tour and you'll get a trip-specific checklist with your booking — down to the right adapter and whether that town's streets eat wheeled suitcases for breakfast.
