How to Pack for an Active Vacation Without Checking a Bag

Packing Smart for Adventure-Meets-Leisure Travel

Some people love packing. They create lists, pack days—sometimes weeks—in advance, and always seem to have the perfect outfit for every occasion, without overpacking. Disclaimer: I'm not one of those people. But when I agreed to run 56 miles in the Serengeti followed by an island getaway with a college BFF, I knew I had to be. I'm proud to say I pulled it off—I fit everything I needed for my 12-day trip into a backpack and a medium duffle, with plenty of room left over for souvenirs.

While you may not be running through the Serengeti, there are certainly some staples every active person should have on their packing list. High on my list were comfortable clothes made of sweat-wicking and durable material that I could wash in the shower and hang dry, as well as multi-use items (who says a bathing suit cover-up can't be worn as a dress?). And of course, since I was going to be doing a ton of running, some real estate naturally went to recovery products like hydration packets and clever muscle-massaging tools.

While this isn't *everything* I packed (first-aid items and a ton of SPF all naturally came along with me, too), here are some of the most useful clothing, toiletry, and recovery items I brought along that helped me get the most out of my multifaceted trip—without paying a single checked bag fee.

Active Vacation Packing List

While this isn't *everything* I packed (first-aid items and a ton of SPF all naturally came along with me, too), here are some of the most useful clothing, toiletry, and recovery items I brought along that helped me get the most out of my multifaceted trip—without paying a single checked bag fee.

Here's a checklist to help ensure you have the basics covered.

Bags: The Dependable Duffle

While this may not seem like a big bag, you can fit a lot in this Eastpak duffel if you fold properly (more on that here). Another reason I *love* this bag is the large protruding side pocket to keep the essentials handy: wipes, a book, your power bank ($40, amazon.com) or solar power bank if you're spending time outdoors ($23, amazon.com) and comfy sandals for the airplane. Even though it doesn't have wheels, the strap makes it easy to carry over your shoulder or by hand while you're whipping around airports—and it's compact enough to fit underneath your seat if the overhead bins are full.

Bags: City-Friendly Hiker Backpack

Originally made for hikers, this Topo backpack is great for any traveler: It's durable, compact, functional, and stylish. There's one pocket inside that fits a laptop, two side pockets great for a water bottle or comfy shoes, and my personal favorite: the large pocket on the outside where I could stash my passport, gum, wireless headphones, or an RX Nut Butter Packet ($23, amazon.com).

Bags: Oh Sh*T I Need Another Bag

Okay, I cheated a little bit—I technically packed three bags, but hear me out. This Paravel fold-up bag folds into a little rectangle that can easily fit in any suitcase, duffel, or backpack—and then it opens up into a decent-size duffle so you can bring home extra goodies from your trip. My advice: Pack a TSA travel lock ($15 for a pack of two locks, amazon.com) with it just in case you end up having to check one of your bags.

Leggings: A Warm, Sweat-Wicking Tight Made for Outdoor Activity

These trail tights from Eddie Bauer are great for runs through wooded areas, hikes, or just exploring the city by foot on a cooler day. With a moisture-wicking combo of polyester and spandex, odor control technology, and UPF 50+ sun protection, you'll be covered on all fronts. Opt for the lighter gray to easily check for ticks and other unwanted stowaways. (If you're looking for more warm winter workout gear, you're welcome.)

Leggings: The Do-It-All Legging

While these Lululemon Speed Up Tights are a bit pricey, they've proven that they deserve their place in my luggage over and over again. Not only are they the comfiest tights I own (a must for sitting on planes for hours) but they also manage to make logging miles in the cold or heat more bearable, thanks to the sweat-wicking technology. The stand-out feature for me? The large, deep pockets that keep my iPhone 8 Plus snugly in place, even on runs.

Leggings: The I-Just-Want-to-Be-Comfy Legging

Veg out on vacation (which is supposed to be relaxing, remember!) with these luxuriously soft leggings from Beyond Yoga. They have the moisture-wicking capabilities to handle your lower-impact workouts, but also the super softness for those days you want to take it easy. Bonus: They double as warm pajama bottoms.

Sports Bra: The Strappy Sports Bra That Doesn't Chafe

Rest assured that the sweat-wicking Lululemon Energy bra can withstand your toughest workouts—without any chafing or restriction. (FYI, it's intended to provide medium support for ladies with a B/C cup.) Oh, and the crisscross back is stunning??

Sports Bra: The No Frills, High-Impact Sports Bra

If you like that tight-to-your skin kind of support from a compression sports bra, then this Under Armour option is perfect for you. It's double-lined for coverage and also quick-drying, making it easy to wash and re-wear multiple times during the trip.

Layers: The Chic Layering Sweatshirt

Shape Activewear's cream-colored pullover is chic enough to wear just about anywhere and so cozy you may not want to take it off. Wear it on the plane, dress it up for casual dinners, or throw it on for your morning walk on the beach.

Layers: Not-So-Basic Base Layers

This base layer from The North Face is form-fitting, but not restrictive, making it a practical shirt for a chilly run. It's also sweat-wicking and quick-drying, so you can get away with wearing it more than once before washing.

Layers: The Perfect Tank

Any workout tank you can pair with the rest of your wardrobe deserves a place in the suitcase. Layer this Under Armour option under a jacket or sweater during the day—or dress it up with jewelry and a skirt for a night out. No one will ever never know it was meant for sweat.

Outerwear: The Cozy Jacket That's Not Bulky

Another The North Face fav, this medium-weight jacket is form-fitting and really, really soft. Translation: It's easy to wear, easy to layer, and easy to pack. (You can also check out these packable puffer jackets for all your worldly adventures.)

Outerwear: The Packable Running Hat

Whether you're on a long run or at the beach, this lightweight Eddie Bauer hat has got you covered thanks to a moisture-wicking headband and anti-glare brim. Bonus: It's super easy to adjust mid-run.

Swim: Sporty-Yet-Supportive Swimsuit

Whether you're paddleboarding, surfing, or (responsibly!) catching rays, a supportive yet sporty suit is a must-pack for any active vacation. This sexy version from SwimsuitsForAll was the perfect combination of functional and stylish.

Swim: A Clever Cover-Up

Gone are the days when cover-ups are just for the pool. With this jumper, also from SwimsuitsForAll, I was able to get day and night looks out of just one piece.

Shoe: The Rugged-Yet-Transitional Sneaker

Made for hiking trails, the waterproof and breathable Adidas Terrex in black have a cool, casual look—so you can wear them on the street or to the airport without raising an eyebrow. This shoe is so durable and versatile, they're well worth the splurge. (If hiking is your thing, consider these adventure clothes that are National Park–ready.)

Shoe: The Sporty Heel

Whether you're adventuring on safari or through a cozy ski town, these comfy heeled boots from Merrell will keep you warm and protected from bugs and harsh weather—while still looking cute.

Shoe: The Best Hiking Sandal

These Merrell sandals come in handy on milder hikes, for city exploring, or if you're headed to a rocky beach with lots of urchins lurking.

Shoe: The Comfy Cool Sandal

Pack a dressier sandal for those days you don't want dirt or sand to follow you to dinner. These rose gold slides from Steve Madden are crazy-comfortable and add a touch of style and femininity to an otherwise-basic outfit.

PJs That Help Your Body Recover

These PJs from Ettitude might just be my favorite item on this list. Bamboo-charcoal powder blends into the bamboo lyocell fabric to create the silky-smooth pajama set that can fight unwanted odor, control bacteria, and stay fresh longer—perfect for longer trips.

Wrinkle-Resistant Clothes: Cute Cargo Pants

Yes, cute cargo pants do exist and they even have 50+UPF. These L.L.Bean pants are great for walking in town or full-blown hiking. (PSA: If you happen to be a klutz like me, you'll be amazed at how quickly spills dry up.)

Wrinkle-Resistant Clothes: A Classic Buttondown

By the looks of it, you'd never know this L.L.Bean buttondown packed so much functionality. It boasts bug-repelling fabric to keep ticks, flies, and mosquitoes at bay as well as ventilating features that come in handy on hotter days (or if you find yourself a little too close to the bonfire).

Toiletries: The Minimalistic Electric Toothbrush

Buy one of these Quip toothbrushes and you'll immediately wonder how you've managed to go without one. This sleek brush is mighty powerful and designed for the optimal two-minute clean, but it isn't bulky like other electric toothbrushes (why are those wires so long?!).

Toiletries: Body, Face and Deodorant Wipes That Will Change Your Life

The most overlooked, game-changing product when it comes to travel goes to the wet wipes. Seriously, these things will get you out of many sticky, smelly, and awkward situations. What I love most about the Recess Travel Kit (which comes with bacteria-fighting body wipes, moisturizing aloe wipes, and deodorant wipes) is that it actually made me forget I was freshening up in an airport bathroom. The wipes are made with aloe, witch hazel, chamomile, and tea tree oil, so they actually feel good on your skin.

Recovery: The Hydration Must-Have

Traveling can be exhausting and dehydrating. Causing everything from mood swings to brain fog, dehydration is an awful travel companion. Unfortunately, water isn't always enough, and that's why a few packets of DripDrop were a must-have for me. Complete with electrolytes sodium, zinc, potassium, and magnesium, they're a lifesaver on the go (they're actually the go-to for wildfire fighters, U.S. Armed Forces, and sick kids in humanitarian crises) and don't cause the sugary spikes of some popular sports drinks. Use them on the plane, on days when you have a rigorous workout planned, and definitely on those nights after you've had a glass or two of wine.

Recovery: Compression Socks for Long Flights and Recovery

Research suggests compression socks may reduce post-workout muscle soreness, so I decided to pack a pair along with my normal running socks. I slept in these light compression socks from CEP every night during my multi-day race in the Serengeti and can honestly say my legs felt great. Not running a crazy long distance but traveling far? Experts recommend wearing compression socks on long flights to minimize the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).

Recovery: Mini Foot Massage Ball

I can't take credit for packing these golf balls, but my trainer suggested I pack a few to roll out my feet. I was so glad I did! Let's call it the lazy-fit-girl's reflexology.

Recovery: Relieve Sore Muscles With This Tiny Stick

Whether you're sore from crushing a workout or from doing absolutely nothing for 13+ hours on a plane (hey, crushing four seasons of Friends is impressive, don't get me wrong!) it's worth having a Tiger Tail massage stick in your side pocket to roll out those calves and get some blood flowing.

The *Smart* Travel Planner

TripIt's free app is like a personal assistant and travel planner all in one. Forward hotel and flight confirmations to it and it will organize it into one brilliant travel plan. You can also customize your travel plan by adding car information for pick-up and transfers, activity plans, travel documents, and important phone numbers. Traveling with a buddy? Invite a friend to add their plans in. Have a nosy parent who wants to know *everything* you're doing? You can send it out to them, too.