I've overpacked exactly twice. Both times I spent the entire trip resentfully dragging a bag that was too heavy and too large. After years of refinement, this is the list that lets me carry on a 40L backpack for any trip up to six weeks.

The Bag

The gear decision that matters most. For carry-on travel: the Osprey Farpoint 40 (men's) and Fairview 40 (women's) remain the gold standard. For longer trips with checked luggage: a 65L bag with a lockable main compartment. For city travel: a 25–30L daypack doubles as a personal item.

Clothing (1–2 Week Trip)

  • 3–4 t-shirts (merino wool dries fast and doesn't smell)
  • 1 lightweight long-sleeve (sun and temple coverage)
  • 2 pairs of trousers/pants (one smart, one convertible)
  • 1 pair of shorts
  • 5 pairs of merino wool socks
  • 5 pairs of underwear (merino or ExOfficio)
  • 1 mid-layer fleece or down jacket
  • 1 packable rain jacket
  • 2 pairs of shoes maximum (walking shoes + flip flops or sandals)

Electronics

  • Universal travel adapter (one compact unit, not country-specific ones)
  • Phone + charger + cable
  • Power bank (10,000mAh minimum)
  • Noise-cancelling headphones (ANC is worth every gram on long flights)
  • Laptop + charger (if needed for work)
  • E-reader (replaces 5 books)

Documents and Money

  • Passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Physical copy of travel insurance details
  • 2 debit/credit cards from different banks
  • Some local currency for arrival
  • Printed accommodation confirmations for first night

Health and Toiletries

  • Small first aid kit (plasters, ibuprofen, antidiarrheals, rehydration sachets)
  • Prescription medications (in original packaging with prescription)
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • DEET insect repellent (for tropical destinations)
  • Solid toiletries (shampoo bar, soap bar — no liquids risk)
  • Quick-dry travel towel
  • Best Carry-On BackpackOsprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L
  • Best Travel Clothing MaterialMerino wool
  • Maximum for Carry-On (Most Airlines)40–45L, under 10kg
  • Best Travel AdapterEpicka Universal — covers 150+ countries
  • Best Noise-CancellingSony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QC45

What to Leave Behind

The items most travelers pack and never use: multiple pairs of dress shoes, "just in case" formal wear, full-size toiletries, a physical guidebook, and anything that exists "in case I need it" — you can buy almost anything you forget in most destinations, usually for less than at home.