It’s summertime – the weather’s (hopefully) great and the holidays are fast approaching which means plenty more time for travel. You don’t have to go far to experience some place new – make time to discover more of your own backyard. Whether you’re planning an epic weekend road trip, or taking a short plane ride, the right gear will make all the difference to a comfortable, safe and memorable experience.
A quick search online will unearth endless travel gear lists – but when you’re travelling, packing lightweight is key. It’s all about having everything you need – and nothing you don’t. Why lug around more weight than necessary?
Putting together your own list can be quite a task. Even if you’re only travelling a short distance, there’s always the worry you’ll forget something, or get the wrong items all together. We’re keen travellers too, so to make things easier, we’ve used our experience and research to make sure you set off on the right foot.
Our Favourite Short Haul Travel Gear
UTSIFOY
Perfect for overnight adventures – the UTSIFOY fits perfectly ‘under the seat in front of you’ making it an ideal carry-on bag for domestic travellers. The UTSIFOY combines smart styling with practical features. This overnight travel pack is all about user convenience – it has multiple carry options with tuck-away shoulders allowing it to be worn as a backpack, or carried as a suitcase. Packing the UTSIFOY is an easy task, with a large U-shaped opening. There’s also a padded laptop sleeve at the back, and a separate shoe bag to keep your footwear away from the rest of your gear.
ITOL
Designed with ease of travel in mind, the ITOL fits perfectly ‘in the overhead locker’ making it the perfect short-haul travel companion. The ITOL has plenty of room for all of your short haul travel essentials and features a large U-shaped opening to a spacious main compartment. In short, it may look like a duffel – but it has the function of a mini suitcase. Wear it over your shoulder, or detach the strap and carry it in comfort with the padded grab handle.Your technology also travels safely, with a padded laptop sleeve, and a special organiser pocket with dedicated spaces for your phone and travel documents.
Duffel Bag
Perfect for road trips, domestic flights and expeditions to faraway destinations (or not so far away, or course!), Macpac duffels are robust, durable and engineered to withstand the rigours of international travel. Available in a range of colours, sizes and styles.
Our Picks:
Packable Packs
Even on shorter trips, you’re going to want to take your travels a little further than your accommodation. If you don’t have the space for a daypack, a packable pack is always an option. Ranging from lightweight to sturdy – we’ve got several great options, depending on your needs. These packs fold down to ultra tiny sizes, and can easily be stashed away in your main luggage until you need them. Perfect for short adventures, or holding extra items when you’re on the go.
Our Picks:
Packable Rainwear
Even on shorter trips, you need to be prepared for whatever the elements may throw at you – the weather won’t behave just because you’re on holiday. However, on shorter trips, you don’t often have the space for everything you need. A Pack-It-Jacket is one way to minimise your clothing list. This handy rain jacket conveniently folds down into its own pocket, reducing it to a super tiny size. Simply stash it in the bottom of your pack, and know it’s there if you run into an unexpected (or expected) shower. Available in adults and kids sizes.
Our Picks:
Merino Base Layers
Merino really is the wonder wool – anti-itch, super soft and anti-odour, you can get several wears out of it before you need to wash it. Available in a range of weights and styles, merino garments can be layered together, or worn alone. They’re also naturally temperature regulating – so you’ll be comfortable no matter what the changeable summer weather throws at you.
Our Picks
Check List:
- Passport (if travelling internationally)
- Travel Documents (don’t forget your tickets!)
- Duffel Bag
- Packable Day Pack
- Emergency & First Aid Kit – if it’s an active trip
- A Good Book – check out our current recommendation Mastering Mountains by Nick Allen
- Travel-sized Umbrella
- Drink Bottle
- Torch
- Toiletry Bag
- Personal items (eg, medications, hair brush, personal hygiene items)
- Packable Rain jacket
- MerinUnderwear
- Lightweight down jacket
- Softshell Jacket
- Moisture-managing base layers
- Comfortable socks
- Sun hat & sunscreen
- Travel towel
- Dry bag – can double as a dirty laundry bag
- Shoe bag
- Versatile low-maintenance clothing that can be worn more than once
