Essential Baggage Checklist: Your Ultimate Guide 2025

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By Tina

Packing for your next adventure doesn’t have to be stressful—Trip.com Philippines makes it easy! Whether you're off to the beaches of Cebu, hiking in Sagada, or exploring city streets abroad, our ultimate packing guide helps Filipino travelers bring all the essentials without overpacking. Plus, with seamless booking for flights, hotels, and activities all in one place, Trip.com ensures your travel experience is smooth from suitcase to destination.

Check If You Have Booked a Hotel

It’s a common situation—many travelers realize they haven’t booked a hotel just a night before their trip! Whether you were busy with work or thought a friend handled it, miscommunication happens. Avoid the hassle and stress by double-checking your hotel booking before you leave. With Trip.com Philippines, securing your stay is quick, easy, and worry-free!

Baggage Packing Checklist

Planning a trip? Making sure you’ve packed everything you need can make or break your travel experience. To help Filipino travelers stay organized and stress-free, we’ve created a reliable holiday packing guide that covers the must-haves for your checked luggage—so you can focus on enjoying your trip, not scrambling at the airport.

Checked luggage items:

Checked baggage usually has a size limit of 158 cm (total of length + width + height) and a weight allowance of up to 23 kg for Economy passengers. Business or First Class travelers may get up to 32 kg per bag, depending on the airline. Always check your airline’s exact baggage policy to avoid extra charges.

ItemWhy You Should Pack It

Clothes (for your entire trip)

Make sure you bring enough clothes for your stay, including weather-appropriate and seasonal outfits.

Shoes

Don’t forget comfy shoes for walking and any special pairs you might need—like sandals or hiking boots.

Toiletries (liquids over 100ml)

Pack your full-size shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and other liquids here since these aren’t allowed in carry-on bags.

Electronics (larger items)

Bring bulky devices like cameras or laptops that won’t fit in your carry-on, but pack them safely.

Books, magazines, or journals

Perfect for keeping entertained during flights or layovers at the airport.

Travel pillow/blanket

Great for adding extra comfort on long flights or while waiting between connections.

Medicine & health supplies

Include your prescription meds and health essentials—just remember to keep urgent meds in your carry-on.

Snacks and non-liquid food items

Bring familiar snacks, especially if you prefer your own food over in-flight meals.

Gifts or souvenirs

Pack your souvenirs or gifts in checked luggage to keep them safe on your way home.

Additional toiletries (larger items)

Larger bottles of body wash, lotions, or perfumes belong in checked bags since they can’t be carried on.

Hold Luggage Items

For your hold luggage or carry-on bag, most airlines from the Philippines allow one piece up to 7 kg (15 lbs) with size limits around 23cm x 36cm x 56cm (9 x 14 x 22 inches). Business class passengers may bring two pieces. Low-cost carriers like Cebu Pacific usually only permit one bag. Remember, batteries and valuable electronics like laptops and cameras must stay in your carry-on, never in checked baggage, to ensure safety and avoid damage. Always check your airline’s rules before packing.

ItemWhy Pack It in Your Hold Luggage

Clothing

Bring enough outfits for your entire trip—including underwear, socks, and sleepwear—to stay comfortable and fresh.

Shoes

Pack comfy walking shoes plus any special footwear like sandals or formal shoes for different occasions.

Toiletries (Full Size)

Full-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other personal care essentials that can’t go in your carry-on.

Extra Toiletries

Don’t forget your hairbrush, razor, deodorant, sunscreen, and other daily essentials.

Jewelry & Accessories

Store jewelry safely in a protective case to avoid damage or loss during travel.

Chargers (Devices)

Chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, and other gadgets—keep them handy for recharging on the go.

Swimwear

Pack swimwear if you’re visiting a beach, pool, or resort destination.

Electronics

Larger gadgets like laptops or cameras should go in protective cases inside your checked luggage.

Souvenirs & Gifts

Use your hold luggage to safely bring home souvenirs or gifts from your trip.

Snacks

Bring bigger or specialty snacks that aren’t allowed in carry-on bags for a tasty travel treat.

Books, Magazines, Guides

Great for entertainment or travel planning during downtime.

Laundry Bag

Keep dirty clothes separate and organized with a laundry bag.

First Aid Kit

Include basic health supplies like bandages and non-prescription meds for any minor emergencies.

Heavy or Bulky Items

Coats, jackets, or other bulky items that won’t fit comfortably in your carry-on bag.

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Essential packing for winter ski holidays

Getting ready for a winter ski trip? Packing the right gear is key to staying cozy and having fun on the slopes. Be sure to bring warm thermal layers, a good waterproof ski jacket and pants, snug gloves, and a comfy hat. Don’t forget your ski socks, goggles, helmet, and boots to keep you safe and comfortable. A little sunscreen and lip balm go a long way against the cold, dry mountain air, plus a neck gaiter or scarf to block those chilly winds. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to enjoy your ski adventure without a worry!

Clothing Essentials

Getting ready for a winter ski trip takes a bit of planning to make sure you’re nice and warm, comfortable, and have everything you need for the slopes. Here’s a simple list of the essentials you should definitely bring along:

Clothing ItemWhy Bring It?

Ski Jacket & Pants

Keeps you dry and warm because it’s waterproof and cozy—super important when you’re out in the snow!

Base Layers

These are your thin, comfy thermal clothes that help keep sweat away and trap heat—think fleece or merino wool. Perfect for layering under everything.

Mid Layers

A nice warm jacket or fleece you can wear over your base layer when it’s really chilly.

Ski Socks

Bring a few pairs of special warm socks that keep your feet dry and comfy while you ski.

Gloves or Mittens

Waterproof and insulated to keep your hands warm and dry—nothing worse than cold, wet fingers!

Hat or Beanie

A cozy hat you can wear under your helmet or just when you’re relaxing after skiing.

Neck Warmer or Buff

Keeps your neck and face protected from the cold wind—it really makes a difference!

Ski Goggles

Protect your eyes from the bright snow and wind so you can see clearly and safely.

Ski Helmet

A must-have for your safety on the slopes. Never skip this!

Ski Gear

ItemWhy Bring It?

Skis/Snowboard & Poles

If you have your own gear, pack it. Otherwise, you can rent when you arrive.

Boots

Comfortable, well-fitted boots are key for a great day on the slopes.

Ski Lock

To keep your equipment safe when you take a break or grab a bite.

Ski Bag

For carrying and protecting your skis or snowboard during travel.

Ski Boot Bag

Handy for storing and transporting your boots easily.

Wax & Tuning Kit

If you’re into maintaining your gear, these help keep your skis or board in top shape.

Ski Straps

Useful for carrying your skis or snowboard together and making transport easier.

Helmet Liner or Balaclava

Extra warmth under your helmet on really cold days.

Accessories & Extras

ItemWhy Bring It?

Sunscreen & Lip Balm

The sun reflecting off the snow can really dry out your skin—don’t forget to protect it!

Water Bottle or Thermos

Staying hydrated is super important, especially when you’re active all day in the cold.

Backpack

Perfect for carrying water, snacks, extra layers, and anything else you might need on the go.

Hand Warmers

Small and easy to carry, these are lifesavers on really cold days to keep your fingers warm.

Camera or GoPro

Capture all your fun moments and epic runs on the slopes.

Snacks

Bring some energy bars or nuts to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Sunglasses

For when you’re off the slopes but still need to protect your eyes from bright sun.

Phone Charger/Power Bank

To keep your devices charged, especially if you’re using your phone for music or photos.

Apres-Ski Clothing

ItemWhy Bring It?

Comfortable Shoes or Boots

Perfect for strolling around après-ski spots or heading to the spa without hurting your feet.

Casual Clothing

Bring comfy pants, sweaters, or hoodies to relax and unwind after a full day on the slopes.

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Power Bank Regulations for Air Travel

If you’re planning a trip and bringing your power bank along, there are some important new rules you should know to keep your travel smooth and safe. Airlines all over the world have updated their policies because of safety concerns, especially about fire risks. Here’s a simple guide to help you pack and use your power bank the right way.

Power Bank Basics for Your Flight

  • Carry your power bank with you in the cabin — not in checked luggage.
    This is a must! Power banks can catch fire if they get damaged, so they’re not allowed in your checked bags. Keep them in your carry-on or your personal bag.
  • Know your power bank’s capacity.
    • If it’s 100 Wh (watt-hours) or less, you’re good to go without needing special permission.
    • If it’s between 101 and 160 Wh, you’ll need to ask the airline first, and you can usually bring up to two spare batteries.
    • Anything over 160 Wh is a no-go on passenger planes.
  • Protect those battery terminals.
    To avoid any sparks or short circuits, cover the terminals with tape, keep them in their original packaging, or put them in a protective case.

What Some Airlines Are Doing (So You Can Be Prepared!)

  • Cebu Pacific
    Cebu Pacific requires power banks to be in carry-on bags only and strictly prohibits placing them in checked luggage. Use and charging onboard may be restricted—confirm before your flight.
  • Singapore Airlines & Scoot
    Starting April 1, 2025, these airlines ban the use and charging of power banks during flights. Bring fully charged devices and pack your power banks in your carry-on.
  • Cathay Pacific
    Allows power banks up to 160 Wh in the cabin but charging with in-seat power outlets is not allowed.
  • Eva Air & China Airlines
    From March 1, 2025, both airlines prohibit the use and charging of power banks onboard flights.
  • Thai Airways & AirAsia
    Both airlines have banned using and charging power banks during flights since March 15, 2025.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Flight with Your Power Bank

  • Always pack your power bank in your carry-on bag.
  • Double-check your airline’s rules before you fly, since they can be different.
  • If your power bank feels hot or warm, stop using it and tell a flight attendant right away.
  • Avoid using power banks during takeoff and landing unless the airline says it’s okay.

Essential holiday packing tips and hacks

Packing for a trip doesn’t have to be stressful! With the right tricks, you can maximize your luggage space and bring exactly what you need—nothing more, nothing less. Over time, you’ll get better at spotting the essentials and fitting both must-haves and a few extras into your bag.

One of our favorite hacks? Packing cubes and vacuum bags. These handy tools help you compress your clothes so they take up less space, keep things neat, and prevent wrinkles. Vacuum bags are especially great for bulky items like sweaters or ski jackets. Plus, here’s a neat tip: wear your heaviest clothes on the plane to save room and avoid extra baggage fees.

For toiletries, forget about bringing full-sized bottles—especially if it’s just a quick trip or weekend getaway. Travel-sized bottles make airport security a breeze (no stressing over the 100ml liquid rule!) and lighten your load. If you love certain products, try pouring some into smaller bottles to save even more space.

✈️ FAQ: Essential Baggage Checklist

  • What should I always bring in my carry-on bag?

    Your hand-carry bag should include all the important items you’ll need during the flight and just in case your checked luggage gets delayed. This means your passport, wallet, phone, charger or power bank (as long as it meets airline limits), any important medication, a change of clothes, travel-size toiletries (under 100ml), snacks, a reusable water bottle, and hygiene items like alcohol or hand sanitizer. Don’t forget a face mask if required.
  • What goes into my checked luggage?

    Your check-in bag should carry your main clothes depending on the weather at your destination, shoes, full-size toiletries, and extras like a laundry bag, travel detergent, and maybe a jacket or umbrella. If you’re bringing gifts or bulkier items, this is where they go. Always pack neatly and consider using vacuum bags or packing cubes to save space.
  • Can I bring my favorite shampoo and lotion with me?

    Yes—but only full-sized ones in your checked baggage. If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, they must follow the 100ml rule and fit inside a clear 1-liter zip bag. It’s better to bring travel-sized bottles or transfer your essentials into reusable small containers.
  • How can I make the most out of my baggage space?

    Simple tricks make a big difference—like rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Use packing cubes to sort your items and keep everything in place. For bulky things like jackets, vacuum bags are a lifesaver. Also, try to wear your heaviest shoes and coat on the flight to free up luggage space.
  • What’s a quick final checklist before leaving home?

    Make sure you’ve packed your passport, phone, wallet, charger, power bank (carry-on only), clothing based on the trip, toiletries (travel-size or full-size depending on the bag), necessary medication, water bottle, and any electronics or documents you need. Bonus tip: always leave some room for souvenirs!
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Essential Baggage Checklist