Digital Nomad Packing List: 45 Essential Items to Pack!

The word "packing" alone can result in a lot of anxiety or dread. It may even be daunting as you wonder how to fit your life into a backpack or suitcase. 

Rest assured that you don't need to literally pack up your life, but a few digital nomad essentials will do.

Packing doesn't have to be a chore, we have simplified your packing process with this digital nomad packing list. Let's get started!

Digital Nomad Gear

Laptop

What's a digital nomad without their laptop? 

Chances are that you already have a laptop that you plan on using abroad. But if you don't or you need something more lightweight, a MacBook Air is highly recommended. 

It easily fits into most backpacks or suitcases and has up to 18 hours of battery life. That's not all though. This laptop also has a rapid loading speed, a built-in camera, and a mic for video calls. It makes working while traveling more convenient. 

Toiletry bag 

You'll be traveling with quite a few toiletries, so it's a good idea to keep them all organized in one place, preferably with a toiletry bag. Luckily, the BAGSMART toiletry bag is perfect for doing so!

Not only is it great for carrying travel toiletries, but it also doubles as a hanging organizer. It's large enough to hold all your toiletries with mesh compartments for you to easily spot and grab the items you need. 

Water bottle 

Hydration is vital while traveling. You might be on a train for several hours or hiking far from any vendors and become thirsty. A reusable water bottle is a good choice, as it's better for the environment and won't leak. 

The Takeya hermoflask Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle is a top choice on Amazon. It's praised for its sturdiness and double wall insulation. 

Backpack 

There are so many different kinds of backpacks you can buy. But one of the most well-known backpack brands is Osprey, which we recently reviewed here. 

Osprey carries high-quality backpacks which can fit all of your travel essentials. One such backpack is the Talon 33. A bit on the pricier side, but it makes for a great digital nomad backpack nonetheless!

Umbrella 

You never know when it'll start pouring down on you, so having a reliable umbrella is a must. 

This Repel travel umbrella is perfect since it's lightweight, portable, and wind-resistant. It also has an automatic operation system, making opening and closing a breeze.

Notebook

There may come a time during your travels when you need to write down a few ideas or even sketch something. A notebook would come in handy. 

But don't just bring any old notebook along with you. Try the Rocketbook, a reusable notebook with pages you can scan and then erase once you're done. 

Universal travel adapter 

As a digital nomad, you're no stranger to phone batteries that seem to drain instantaneously just after charging. The last thing you want is to arrive at your hotel and realize that your charger doesn't fit the electrical outlets. 

A universal travel adapter, like this one from Amazon, can save you from a literal nightmare.

RFID Wallet

An RFID wallet is a digital nomad essential for securely carrying your money and identification cards while traveling. It'll protect you from having your information stolen and help you stay organized too!

Packing cubes 

Packing cubes help to compress your clothing and keep your items organized. 

Gone are the days of unpacking everything just to find a pair of clean socks. You'll know exactly which packing cube you put it in and can easily take it out. 

Some of the best packing cube brands include Eagle Creek, Away, and Rick Steves. 

Inflatable neck pillow

As a digital nomad, you'll be on the go frequently. Whether you're on the train or plane, it's nice to get some sleep so that you're ready to explore or work as soon as you arrive at your destination. 

This neck pillow can help you do just that. It's easy to inflate, soft against the skin, and folds compactly for easy packing. 

Power bank 

Bringing a power bank along with you is always a good idea. You never know how long you'll be away from an electric outlet while traveling and exploring. And it's certainly not ideal to be without a charged phone while moving around!

Footwear

Footwear can be bulky to travel with, so I recommend buying whatever you need once you arrive at your destination. You may even be able to grab it at a lower price than you would get it for at home. 

For the budget traveler, I recommend bringing at least one pair of sturdy and comfortable shoes, such as the Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Shoe.

Hiking shoes tend to be bulkier, so opt to wear them while traveling instead of carrying them in your bag. 

Clothing 

The clothing you bring largely depends on the locations you'll visit. As a digital nomad, most of the clothing you need can be purchased once you arrive at your destination. 

But if you're not one for winging it, we recommend packing the items listed below. 

Digital Nomad Packing List Template

Clothing

If you're looking at travel clothings to buy, you've probably came across brands like Anatomie, Toads & Co, and Allbirds. Make sure to check out our review of their products before you buy!

• 5 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 1 bathing suit or 1 pair of swim shorts 
• 1 pair of workout shorts 
• 1 pair of pants/jeans to travel in
• 5 t-shirts
• 7 underwear
• 1 belt
• 1 sweater
• 1 rain jacket 
• 1 casual jacket

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Eye mask
• Inflatable neck pillow
• Cologne/perfume
• Antiperspirant
• Gravol (for stomach issues when traveling)
• Wahl electric beard trimmer
• Earplugs
• Travel towel (microfiber for faster drying)
• Nail clippers 
• Toiletry bag 
• Hand sanitizer
• Comb 
• Makeup
• Insect repellent 

Tech 

• Laptop 
• Laptop accessories (keyboard, mouse, charger)
• Headphones
• Power bank
• Smartphone
• Universal travel adapter

Miscellaneous 

• Water bottle
• Backpack

If you're on the search for a quality backpack, check out our review of Osprey, the backpack known to travelers around the world!

• Umbrella 
• Notebook
• RFID Wallet 
• Packing cubes

Travel documents 

• Passport
• Travel insurance documents
• Copies of essential documents (birth certificate, driver's license) 
• Boarding pass
• Covid-19 vaccine passport or negative test result (if required)

A Digital Nomad Essential

Planning and packing for travel can be stressful. So, hopefully, this packing list becomes an essential part of planning your next trip along with Pilot!