What to Pack for a Day Trip: Essentials I Always Bring

Packing for a day trip should be easy, but forgetting one little essential can make for an uncomfortable and stressful day. Here’s my checklist of what to pack on a day trip. Honestly, this is what I bring even if I’m just out for the afternoon exploring street art in Paris. (I like to be prepared!)

Wallet, ID/Passport, Keys, Tickets (Downloaded or Paper Copy)

I’m counting these as one item! Don’t be the person to forget them. You have no excuse since I put it in the number one spot.

Water

It is so important to stay hydrated. We tend to forget to drink enough while traveling. Nalgene bottles are sturdy and easy to clean if you get the wide mouth variety. I used to have a large 32 ounce Nalgene water bottle until it had an unfortunate incident with the heating element in the dishwasher. (I’m definitely not blaming Mom for that…) I am currently in love with the 16 ounce Nalgene water bottle because it’s much easier to carry around on a regular basis.

Snacks

In an unsurprising turn of events, the third item on the list is food-related. As Jonathan can tell you, I get hangry. I recommend Kind bars. There are a lot of varieties, they pack well, and they don’t make a mess. Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt are my go-to.

Umbrella

Bring an umbrella. Always. (Especially in Paris.) Even if there’s no chance of rain. Ke.movan makes a nice compact travel umbrella. It is on the small side, but it’s sturdy and lightweight, making it easy to have on hand.

Sunscreen

Even on a cloudy day, you can get a sunburn. For full coverage in the summer, I opt for a mineral sunscreen. I have found that Alba Botanica makes a mineral sunscreen that actually rubs in without leaving white traces. If I just need something for my face, I typically use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen. I like it, because it doesn’t feel greasy.

Sunglasses / Hat

Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses and/or a hat! I have a lovely pair of no-name cheap-o sunglasses that have been kicking around for ages.

Hand Sanitizer / Tissues / Handwipes / Feminine Products

I don’t really need to explain these to you, do I?

Chapstick

I never leave home without chapstick. My favorite is Burt’s Bees Peppermint lip balm, but there are other varieties as well.

Advil/Medications

Get a travel size container of ibuprofen or some other type of pain medication, and refill it as needed. I carry an Advil Pocket Pack. Of course, if you have any medications that you are supposed to take regularly, make sure you have those as well!

Earbuds / Headphones / Phone / Portable Battery

If you plan to listen to music or podcasts on your phone, earbuds are a must. Don’t be the person to forget your phone. Don’t be the person that drains their battery on the way to the destination and also forgot a portable battery. The Anker Portable Charger has proven to be reliable, and you can also charge two devices at once. I also have an Anker Lightning Cable for my iPhone.

Camera

I don’t use anything fancy to take pictures, just my phone!

Entertainment

I definitely prefer actual books, but sometimes a kindle is more practical. I’d recommend the version that I have, but it’s so old that it no longer exists! They do tend to last a long time. If podcasts are your thing, download a few on your phone before you head off so that you don’t have to worry about a slow network or wifi.

Backpack

Make sure you get a backpack that is comfortable. Jonathan really likes his Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack. The shoulder pads are well-cushioned.

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Is there anything else that you would add to this list??