What to Pack for Every Trip: Ski, Beach, Camping & Festival

Heading to the slopes, sand, woods, or a muddy dance field? Each trip comes with its own packing quirks. Forget one item, and it could mean cold toes, sunburn, no signal—or worse, no coffee.

A follow-up to our extremely popular Beginners Guide To Planning A Trip; this guide gives you smart, no-nonsense packing lists (with a few pro tips) so you’re ready for anything.

Most of these tips are self explanatory. Others need a bit more context, which we provided below!

Cold weather? Layer like a lasagna.

Ski trips aren’t just about keeping warm—they’re about staying dry, mobile, and not losing a glove on the gondola.

Pack this:

• Ski socks (bring a few extra—wet socks = no fun)
• Base layers: thermal pants + top
• Mid-layer fleece or sweater
• Ski jacket and waterproof trousers
• Gloves, neck gaiter, face mask
• Helmet, goggles, ski pass
• Boots, skis, poles (or rental info)
• Lip balm, sunscreen
  Snow reflects sunlight, so even in freezing temps, UV rays can burn your skin and lips fast.
• Après-ski clothes + snow boots
  Once you’re off the slopes, it’s all about cozy comfort. Think warm, dry layers you can wear to the bar or chalet—plus boots that won’t slip on icy streets. Think comfort AND colour!
• Sleep mask, earplugs, noise-canceling headphones
  Ski lodges and shared accommodations can be noisy—especially after après-ski. These help you actually rest.

Bonus tip: Pack in order you’d wear it. Start from socks and work up to helmet—this helps you remember every layer and keeps packing brain fog at bay.

Carry-on vibes with maximum chill.

You want light, breezy, and smart—no one wants to lug a full suitcase across hot sand.

Pack this:

• At least 2 swimsuits (one to wear, one to dry)
• Loose, airy outfits (Think: linen and cotton)
• Sandals + 1 pair comfy shoes
• Some kind of hat
• Kindle/phone + earbuds + charger
• Toiletries, aftersun, lip balm
• Reef-safe sunscreen
  Many destinations ban regular sunscreen because it harms coral reefs. Reef-safe options protect both your skin and the environment.
• Light sweater for plane/AC
  Airports, airplanes, and hotel lobbies can be freezing. A light layer keeps you comfy without overheating once you’re back in the sun.

Quick tip: Most resorts have shade and towels, so don’t overpack unless you’re roughing it.

Keep it simple. Keep it warm. Keep it dry.

Camp life is great—until you forget your headlamp or freeze at 3am. Here's what you'll actually use.

Pack this:

• Tent & sleeping bag
• Pillow and WARM gear (gloves, blanket, fleece)
• Stove, lighter, basic cookware
• Easy food (think oatmeal, bars, cans, PB sandwiches)
• Layers, waterproof jacket, solid boots or sneakers
• First aid kit, bug spray, painkillers
• Sleeping pad (air or foam)
  A pad keeps you warm by insulating you from the cold ground—and makes a huge difference in sleep quality.
• Headlamp (plus batteries)
  Flashlights require one hand. Headlamps keep both hands free—essential when cooking, finding the loo, or dealing with gear in the dark.
• Biodegradable soap
  Regular soap can harm wildlife and pollute water sources. Biodegradable soap keeps you and nature clean.
• Can opener
  You will forget this once and only once. Most easy camp meals are in cans, and opening one without a tool is no fun.
• Baby wipes
  When there’s no shower for days, wipes become your new best friend. Also handy for spills, grime, and freshening up.

Friendly advice: Most campsites don’t have bins, and leaving waste behind isn’t just gross—it’s harmful. A strong trash bag makes cleanup easy and keeps your car from smelling like burnt sausages.

Half rave, half survival camp.

Festivals are muddy, sweaty, and pure magic—if you pack smart.

Pack this:

• Tent, sleeping bag, earplugs
• Bum bag or crossbody (for phone/cash/ID)
• Wellies or tough shoes (don’t test the mud)
• Wet wipes, dry shampoo, toilet roll
• Noise-canceling headphones + sleep mask
• Phone charger, portable battery, cash, glitter (duh)
• Sleeping pad
  Whether it’s a compact air pad, yoga mat, or foam roll, getting off the hard ground makes a massive difference. Better sleep = better mood = better time.
• Lacrosse ball
  After a day on your feet, rolling them on a firm ball relieves tension. Cheaper and lighter than a foot massager.

Pro move: Electrolyte tabs or powders keep you hydrated and help fight fatigue. Plus, a good magnesium supplement at night can help with sleep and recovery. Always ask your doctor, first.

Your ride-or-die packing MVPs

No matter where you’re going, these are must-haves:

• Charging cables, power bank
• Travel-size toiletries
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Backup cash and ID
• Lightweight day bag or backpack
• First aid basics + pain relief
  Blisters, headaches, and surprise sunburns happen. Pack plasters, painkillers, antihistamines, and anything you always seem to need—because someone in your group will definitely forget theirs.
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