travel tips

Essential Packing List for Long-Term Travel from Canada

Pack smarter, not heavier. This tested packing list covers everything Canadian long-term travellers actually need, from tech gear to clothing for any climate.

Published 2026-03-10 · 10 minute read

After years of helping Canadians plan their travels, one lesson stands out: most people pack too much. Whether you're heading out for a 3-month backpacking trip or relocating as a digital nomad, this packing list covers what you actually need — and nothing more.

The One-Bag Philosophy

The goal is to fit everything in a single carry-on sized bag (40-45L). This eliminates checked bag fees, speeds up transit, and forces you to be intentional about what you bring. You can buy almost anything you need at your destination, usually cheaper than in Canada.

Bags and Organization

  • Main backpack: 40-45L travel pack (Osprey Farpoint, Peak Design Travel, or Tortuga)
  • Daypack: Packable 20L backpack for daily use
  • Packing cubes: 3-4 compression cubes for clothing organization
  • Toiletry bag: Hanging toiletry kit
  • Tech organizer: Cable and electronics pouch

Clothing (7-Day Rotation)

Pack for one week and plan to do laundry. Choose versatile, quick-dry fabrics in neutral colours that mix and match.

  • 5 t-shirts or tops (merino wool or synthetic blend)
  • 2 pairs of pants/shorts (one casual, one dressier)
  • 7 pairs of underwear (merino wool dries fast)
  • 3 pairs of socks (merino wool)
  • 1 lightweight jacket or fleece
  • 1 rain shell (packable)
  • 1 swimsuit
  • 1 outfit for nice occasions
  • 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
  • 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops

Tech and Work Gear

  • Laptop (lightweight, 13-14 inch)
  • Phone with international eSIM capability
  • Universal power adapter (with USB-C ports)
  • Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds
  • Portable power bank (20,000 mAh)
  • Laptop stand (foldable)
  • External SSD for backups (1TB)
  • USB-C hub (HDMI, USB-A, SD card)

Health and Safety

  • Travel first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers)
  • Prescription medications (with doctor's letter)
  • Sunscreen (reef-safe)
  • Insect repellent
  • Water purification (SteriPen or LifeStraw bottle)
  • Copies of passport, insurance, and important documents (digital and paper)

Canada-Specific Items to Bring

Some things are hard to find or much more expensive abroad:

  • Your favourite Canadian brands of toiletries (if particular)
  • A good winter layer if heading somewhere cold (Canadian quality is hard to beat)
  • Maple syrup packets (seriously, they make great gifts)
  • Prescription medications (enough for your trip, with documentation)
  • Canadian-style power adapter (same as US, so just need international adapter)

What NOT to Pack

  • More than 2 pairs of shoes (they're heavy and bulky)
  • "Just in case" items (you can buy them if needed)
  • Guidebooks (use your phone)
  • Towels (hostels and Airbnbs provide them, or buy a quick-dry travel towel)
  • Expensive jewellery or irreplaceable items
  • A full-size toiletry collection (buy travel sizes or refill abroad)

The lighter you pack, the more enjoyable your travels will be. Start with this list, adjust based on your destination and style, and remember — you can always buy what you forgot.