Going on a short city trip, you often don't need to bring as much as you would for a 2 weeks beach holiday. Also, it is often much cheaper to travel with hand luggage only.
Use this complete packing list suitable for a small suitcase and a backpack only to make sure you don't forget important things, but also don't bring too much unnecessary clutter.
Clothing
This obviously depends a bit on where you are going, in what season you are travelling and how the weather will be. But in general you can stick to these:
- 1 top per day
- 2 trousers per 5 days
- a jacket (waterproof/winter coat/cardigan according to climate)
- sneakers or other comfy shoes
- a scarf
- pyjamas
- a dress to go out with
- think of belt, watch and maybe jewellery when packing to make sure things fit with everything
Toiletries
In case you are travelling by plane, please make sure your liquids are travel sized (= do not exceed 100ml each) and are packed in a see-through pouch.
- tooth brush, tooth paste
- lip balm, body lotion
- deodorant, shaver
- make up (according to personal preferences, but not to much)
- tampons, contraception
- shower gel, shampoo, conditioner
- hand soap, facial cleansing gel
- hair brush, hair bands/clips
- sun cream (depending on where you go)
- tissues
- medicine for personal use
In your accommodation
Depending on where you stay some things might be provided anyway or you need to bring additionally. Check in advance to make sure you don't pay for unnecessary luggage.
- if not provided towels
- sleeping mask, hearing buds
- charger for all electrical decives
- if needed a converter
- paper, pen
For on the go
Additionally to the things listed, I like to have a tiny "survival pouch" with me including tissues, a pen, some plasters, some emergency money, etc. You might want to pack one, too.
- reusable water bottle
- a anti-theft backpack or cross body
- small bag for valuables to carry close to your body
- fan, sunglasses
- umbrella
- dictionary, travel guide
- small deodorant, disinfection gel, plaster
- camera
On your travels
Some of the things I have already listed in other categories, you might want to have within reach during your flight, train ride or similar as well. Simply think about how long your way is and what you need to feel comfortable.
- e reader/book/magazine
- power bank
- headphones, mobile phone!!
- food, drink
- ID, passport
- cash, credit card
- tickets
- copies of all valuable documents
And that's it already! Now you are good to go on your next city trip being prepared for everything that awaits you in the daily adventure of a huge town. Enjoy!