Pack for the trip you are actually taking.
Packing begins with the itinerary. Climate, terrain, cultural expectations, transportation and luggage restrictions matter more than the number of days.
PACK FOR MOVEMENT
Check the seasonal pattern when booking and the forecast again during the week before departure. Build outfits around repeatable layers and shoes that serve more than one purpose. Review every airline or charter limit; small aircraft may restrict dimensions as well as weight.
I rarely use packing cubes. They can help compress bulky items or organize a trip based in one place, but I often move from hotel to hotel. Repeatedly unpacking and repacking several cubes becomes cumbersome. I prefer direct access and a simple category layout inside the suitcase.
PROTECT THE FIRST 24 HOURS
Your carry-on should cover a delayed checked bag: medication, electronics and chargers, a universal adapter, toiletries, underwear, one change of clothing and anything difficult to replace quickly.
For long flights, I add the small comforts that improve arrival: toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, lotion, lip balm, an eye mask, bonnet, slippers, headphones, AirFly, portable power and snacks.
IF YOU CHECK A BAG
Photograph the bag and contents, keep the baggage receipt and place identification inside the suitcase. If it does not arrive, report it before leaving the airport to the airline that operated the final flight segment. Keep the report number and receipts for essential replacement purchases.
STOPOVERS AND SMALL PLANES
Confirm whether the checked bag will be available during a stopover. If it is tagged to the final destination, keep the stopover clothing and necessities in your carry-on. For small-plane itineraries, pack to the strictest limit on the route.
Less is not automatically better. The goal is enough: prepared for the real trip without carrying options that have no job.
CONTINUE PLANNING