A packing checklist for holiday trips to family and friends, by plane, train or car. Cross out what you do not need and add your own items. Check your airline, rail or bus operator's rules before you pack.
Tickets, boarding passes and booking confirmations
Wallet, cards and some cash
Phone, chargers and a battery pack
House keys and car keys
Any medications you normally take, in their original packaging
Glasses or contacts
Clothes
Outfits for each day: ________
One dressier outfit for a holiday meal or event
Warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf
Sleepwear and underwear
Comfortable shoes and slippers
Layers for cold travel days and warm houses
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant, hair care and skincare
Travel-size liquids if flying
Lip balm and hand cream for dry winter air
Gifts and extras
Gifts, or a plan to ship them ahead
Gift bags, tissue and tape if wrapping at your destination
Host gift
Dish or recipe you promised to bring
Phone photos of gift receipts
Kids
Snacks and refillable water bottles
Headphones, books and small games
Comfort toy or blanket
Spare change of clothes in the carry-on
Car trips
Check the weather and road conditions before leaving
Ice scraper, blanket, flashlight and phone charger
Water and snacks
Windshield washer fluid topped up
Before you leave home
Set the thermostat and check windows are locked
Hold or forward mail and packages
Empty the fridge of anything that will spoil
Take out the trash and recycling
Unplug small appliances; set light timers
Arrange care for pets and plants
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How to use this holiday packing list
Holiday trips are short but busy: you are carrying clothes for cold weather and dressy dinners, gifts, and sometimes food, often with children in tow. Print the list a few days before you leave, cross out anything that does not apply and add your own items in the margins. Pack the Documents and essentials section into a carry-on or day bag first, since those are the things you cannot easily replace on the road. Tick each item as it goes into the bag, then use the Before you leave home section on your last morning.
Packing gifts for travel
Gifts take up more room than you expect. A few options make it easier:
Ship ahead: have online orders delivered straight to your destination, or mail wrapped gifts a week or two before you travel.
Wrap on arrival: pack flat gift bags, tissue and tape, and wrap once you get there.
Check the rules when flying: security screening may need to look inside a wrapped gift, so many travelers leave gifts unwrapped in carry-on bags. Check your airline and airport security guidance before you go.
Plan outfits rather than packing loose items. Pick a color scheme so layers mix and match, count the days you will be away, and include one outfit for a holiday meal. Wear your bulkiest coat and shoes while traveling. If you are flying, check your airline's bag allowance and liquid rules, which can differ by airline and country. Leave a little space for things you bring home.
Driving in winter weather
Long holiday drives often happen in cold or snowy weather. Check the forecast and road conditions for your whole route before you leave, and allow extra time. Many drivers keep a small winter kit in the car with a blanket, ice scraper, flashlight, phone charger, water and snacks. Follow your local transportation department's travel advice if conditions are poor, and consider delaying the trip if they recommend it.
Many people print the list a few days ahead, gather documents and gifts first, and pack clothes the night before. Starting early helps you spot anything you need to buy.
Can I bring wrapped gifts on a plane?
Security screening may need to open a wrapped gift, so many travelers pack gifts unwrapped or in gift bags. Check your airline and airport security guidance for current rules.
How do I pack light for Christmas?
Plan outfits around a few colors that layer together, pack one dressy outfit, wear your bulkiest items while traveling, and ship gifts ahead if you can.
What should I keep in the car for a winter drive?
Common items include a blanket, ice scraper, flashlight, phone charger, water and snacks. Check road conditions before you leave and follow local travel advice.
Will this print on A4 paper?
The PDF is US Letter size. On A4, choose "Fit to page" or "Scale to fit" in your print dialog.
