What to Pack for a Trip: The Ultimate Slow Travel Packing Guide

Overall, packing for a trip can be overwhelming, especially as a neurodivergent traveler. Consequently, this list is for those who prioritize comfort, ease, and sensory-friendly experiences. All in all, knowing exactly what to pack for a trip ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey. From must-have supplements to cozy travel essentials, this guide has you covered.

What Essential Travel Day Clothing to Pack for a Trip

1. Comfortable and Versatile Clothing

Undoubtedly, slow travel can’t happen without being comfortable in what you’re wearing. Pack breathable, soft fabrics that can be layered and easily mixed and matched.

• Vouri’s joggers – Super soft, stylish, and ideal for long travel days.
• Jackets for layering – Great for unpredictable weather– or unpredictable plane temperature.
• Comfortable walking shoes – Choose something supportive and easy to slip on and off. Check out my blog on Best Sandals for Walking.
• Compression shorts – To help sooth the sensory overload of travel, I keep on a pair of compression shorts or leggings, compression socks, and rotate rounds of wearing vs not wearing each flight leg if there are multiple layovers to give multiple sensory options for my body.

2. Sun Protection

Equally important, protecting your skin is essential, whether you’re exploring a city or relaxing in nature.

• Hat & sun protection – A must-have for sunny destinations.
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirt – Provides extra coverage without overheating.
• Check out my blog the Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin 2025

Wellness & Supplement Essentials: What to Pack for a Trip

3. Supplements for Health Support

All in all, travel can be stressful on the body, so bring supplements that promote balance and well-being.

• Culturelle Abdominal Support & Comfort – Supports gut health while on the go.
• Adrenal Restore by Gaia Herbs – Helps with stress and sleep regulation.
• Liquid glutathione (Use this link for $10 off) – A powerful antioxidant for immune support.
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E 
• Electrolytes by Seeking Health – Keeps hydration levels balanced. I use Seeking Health‘s Unflavored Electrolyte mix exclusively. They are one of the only product’s on the market that don’t add sugar or some other type of sweetener. Specifically formulated by Dr. Ben Lynch, an Epigenetic pioneer, this mix has the perfect balance of all nutrients to optimize muscle function. Use this link for $10 off your first order of $20 or more.
• Cymbotika Silajit: Shilajit contains fulvic acid and over 86 trace minerals required for most of the body’s biological processes. Shilajit is a highly valued healing substance in Ayurvedic and Eastern medicine. Studies show it has the ability to enhance detoxification, increase blood flow and circulation, and provide the body with nutrients that support the production of ATP (cellular energy). A research study noted that shilajit can eliminate many different viruses in isolated environments.
• Liquid Silver: Used before bed on the nights before and after your flight, this can offer extra protection.
• Check out my blog on How to Not Get Sick on a Plane Flight

Skincare & Personal Care: What to Pack for a Trip

4. Skin & Body Care

Another key point is that travel can be rough on the skin, so bring hydrating and soothing products.

• Lotion – Triple Repair by La Roche-Posay – Provides deep hydration and restores your skin’s topical layer.
• Sun Protection – check out my blog on the Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin.
• Tiger Balm – Perfect for soothing sore muscles after long flights or walks.
• The one-use mini loofas – Lightweight and hygienic for travel.
• Wipees (dehydrated) – Convenient and easy to pack for freshening up on the go. To decrease the weight, lay them out on a clean, water-safe surface a few nights before your trip. They’ll dry overnight, then you can pack into zip-lock bags and rehydrate with some water from your waterbottle whenever needed. By drying them out, you’re saving yourself from carrying extra weight. 

Must-Have Travel Accessories: What to Pack for a Trip

5. Comfort & Convenience

Additionally, bringing the right accessories can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

• Blackout eye mask for sleeping – Essential for blocking out light and ensuring deep sleep. A silk sleep mask is moisture wicking, temperature regulating, and aids in hydration and helps prevent fine lines.
• Power dock for phone – Keeps devices charged while on the move.
• Yoga mat for travel – Great for stretching and relaxation.
• Mini straightener – A travel-friendly option for hair styling.
• Water bottle – Stay hydrated without relying on plastic bottles. Look for a stainless steel option that can keep your water temperature-regulated and one that doesn’t have a side the mouthpiece exposed (like a built-in straw).
• Airplane earplugs – after one time of my ears hurting so bad on a descent, I now never fly without these. You put them in like a cork-screw the first 30-minutes and last 30-minutes of the flight (or once they announce they’re starting the descent) until you land.
• Para-cord and Duct tape – Handy for unexpected needs, from securing items to repairs.
• Check out my blog on How to avoid jet lag

Special Packing Considerations

6. Road Trip Essentials

In addition, for road trips, comfort and cleanliness are key. Here’s what to pack for trip by car:

• Air purifier – Helps with air quality in hotel rooms or car interiors.
• Sheets – Ideal for those sensitive to hotel linens.
• Pillow – Brings extra comfort to unfamiliar beds.

7. International Travel Essentials

Moreover, international travel often requires a few extra considerations.

• Different outlets – Make sure you have the right adapters for your destination.
• Dehydrated meals – for long flights, plane food has so much plastic in it. I bring some dehydrated meals, get hot water “for tea” from starbucks and then prep the meals right before I get on the plane while other groups are boarding. If you want to invest in a dehydrator, making your own meals is easier than you’d think! Otherwise, stores like REI or online retailers sell great options—I love Mountain House‘s Beef Stroganoff, Rice & Chicken, and Chicken & Dumplings.

Packing the right items can make all the difference in both how enjoyable and stress-free your trip feels. If you know what to pack for trip, then you can focus on the experience rather than the logistics. Happy travels!

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