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In-Flight Personal Item Packing List

Having taken countless flights in many countries, with durations ranging from 30 minutes to 17 hours, I’ve perfected which in-flight essentials I need to make my trips comfortable. Below are my tried and true essentials, along with an in-flight personal item packing list to help you pack for your next trip like a pro.

What is a personal item?

Depending on the airline and its policies, you’re usually able to check one large bag (usually for a fee), bring onboard one carry-on bag for the overhead compartment (sometimes also for a fee), and one personal item like a small backpack, purse, or tote bag. I’ve never encountered an airline that didn’t allow a free personal item, so I always bring one and make sure to keep it under the seat in front of me for easy access.

How to choose your personal item

Keep it simple

I like to keep things as easy and smooth as possible when traveling, so I frequently carry a small backpack as a purse. This will be my main bag on the trip, and it doubles as my personal item on the plane. I don’t enjoy having too many bags or having to transfer things between bags, so, for me, one central personal item is key.

Don’t make it too heavy

Whichever bag you choose, be sure not to pack it too heavy, as you will be lugging this personal item through airport security, through the terminals, and between connecting flights if you have any. Trust me, you will thank yourself later for packing your personal item smartly and not causing a strain on your arms and back. When browsing through my in-flight packing list below, be sure to choose only what you will reasonably be needing.

Choose a durable bag

When shopping for the bag that will be your personal item, consider the conditions it will have to endure. It’s going to go on the conveyor belt when going through airport security, on airport chairs while you wait for your flight, on the floor of the airplane, and most likely on the seat of a taxi on the way to your hotel. So be sure to pick a bag that is dark in color to not pick up stains too easily. Also, if choosing a tote bag, be sure it has a zipper or button closure so the contents don’t fall out when on it’s side on the floor of the plane.

Be Organized

The only thing worse than not having your essential items with you is having to rummage around in your bag every time you need something. I always separate everything into different mini-pouches. For example, put all your personal essentials in one pouch, your hydration essentials in another, etc. Small zippered cloth bags are great, or clear ones are even better for finding things quickly.

My recommendations for your personal item

Backpack purse as an in-flight personal item

Messenger bag as in-flight personal item

Hydration Essentials

In all my flight experience, hydration essentials are absolutely key. They are the things I wish I had most when I didn’t pack correctly, and they are the things my friends and family most often want to borrow mid-flight. Below are my favorite hydration products for your in-flight personal item packing list.

Hand lotion. Considering the amount of times you’ll likely be washing or sanitizing your hands on this journey, hand lotion is needed to prevent dry hands. We all have our favorites, but my personal go-to is this travel sized hand lotion from Aveeno.
Chapstick. If you’re a chapstick lover like me, do not forget this. Maybe even bring a back up. The conditions are usually very dry in an airplane, and considering you’re probably not drinking as much water as you normally do on the ground, chapstick is a lifesaver in-flight.
Lip sleeping mask. If you want to take it one step further, grab a travel sized lip mask. I absolutely love this lip sleep mask from Laneige. I bought it originally as part of my normal at-home sleeping beauty routine, and am so obsessed with it that I’ve added a travel size to my in-flight personal item packing list. Basically just put a tiny bit on before sleeping, and it locks in moisture for hours. You will thank me when you wake up from your in-flight slumber with wonderfully hydrated lips.
Eye drops. With the dry conditions of an airplane, and considering you’re probably not getting as much shut eye as you normally do, eye drops are necessary for preventing dry and irritated eyes. I usually pack two types: one that is purely moisturizing, and one that includes redness relief. I learned from my optometrist that you’re not supposed to use the redness removing eye drops too frequently, so I use my moisturizing drops most often, and only use the redness removing drops when absolutely needed (like before entering customs or before meeting your welcome party).
Face moisturizer. For those who aren’t wearing makeup, using a good face cleansing wipe and then a facial moisturizer is a giant tip for arriving at your destination with fresh dewy skin.
Water bottle. Last but not least, bring your own water. Water is served on planes, but it’s not done very often, and when it is, it’s usually in those small plastic cups, which personally doesn’t feel like enough for someone like me who usually drinks a ton of water. You can certainly purchase a plastic water bottle after you pass security at your original gateway, but bringing your own empty reusable, collapsible water bottle is more sustainable. Remember not to bring a full water bottle from home or buy one before security, otherwise you will be forced to throw it away. Most airports have water fill stations these days, or you can ask a flight attendant to help fill your water bottle on the plane.

Sleeping Essentials

I’ve spent years trying to perfect the art of sleeping comfortably in an economy airplane seat, and I’m happy to report I’m the closest I’ve ever been. Some travelers have no issue at all sleeping on planes, so if you’re one of those, feel free to skip ahead. But for those weary souls like me who need all the help they can get, be sure to add these sleeping essentials to your in-flight personal item packing list.

Inflatable sleeping pillow. I’m going to start with the funniest, but most helpful item on the list. I’m one who simply falls forward when sleeping on a plane. The seat doesn’t go back far enough to keep me from slumping forward, or to the side and then forward. A standard neck pillow to me is completely useless, as I just fall forward while wearing it. Is there anyone else out there like me? (I’d love some validation in the comments!) I’ve tried many other sleeping solutions, a few of which I’ll post below in case they are helpful, but for me, this inflatable sleeping pillow is the ultimate plane sleeping hack. Tip: The pillow folds down and has a small carrying pouch, but if it’s too large to fit into our personal item, feel free to clip it on to the outside of your bag. I always keep these small carabiners handy when traveling for instances like this.
Neck pillow. This is your standard neck pillow that I see most travelers carrying (or wearing, lol) around the airport. They also sell inflatable versions for those wanting to save space.
Trtl neck pillow. I invested in a Trtl neck pillow with really high hopes that it would solve my falling-forward problem when sleeping on planes, but I’m sad to say it didn’t. I simply fell forward whilst wearing the Trtl pillow. Nevertheless, I think it’s a genius design to keep your next straight, and it may be an awesome solution to those of you looking for something in between the standard neck pillow and the funny giant inflatable one.
Eye mask. A comfortable eye mask should be on everyone’s in-flight personal item packing list. It doesn’t take up much room, and blocks out the light on the plane (i’s also a great way to non-verbally say “don’t bother me” to those around you).
Earplugs. These are essential. Planes are noisy places, from people talking and coughing to kids playing and crying. Always be sure to keep some fresh ear plugs handy in your personal item.
Noise-canceling headphones. If you don’t mind wearing headphones while you sleep, these are a lifesaver. Pair it with some relaxing music or a white noise app, and you’ve got yourself some in-flight gold.
Blanket. This one isn’t super necessary, as most flights provide blankets, but if you’re someone who gets cold easily, this is a great idea. It takes up a big portion of your personal item, so I’ve chosen one that folds into a travel pillow case and can easily be clipped onto the outside of your bag. I personally just choose to carry a coat onto the plane, which saves room in my luggage and doubles as an extra pillow or blanket.
Comfy socks. I stumbled upon this tip by accident one time when I wore sandals on a particularly icy flight. I was so cold that I stopped at an airport gift shop on my connection in Dallas to look for socks. All they had were obnoxiously fuzzy Dallas Cowboys socks, and I happily bought them. To this day, I still pack those lovely warm socks in my personal item. I will forever be an in-flight Dallas Cowboys fan.
Compression socks. These are probably the smarter choice of socks, as maintaining blood circulation is important on long haul flights. If you’re a window seat dweller like me, chances are you’re not getting up to stand or walk around mid-flight as much as you would like. Heck, you could even combine your compression socks with some comfy socks if you choose. The only one judging your in-seat style choices may be the passenger next to you.

Personal Essentials

Cover image for in-flight personal essential items list, including moisturizing hand sanitizer, mints, tissues, pill organizer, toothbrush and mouthwash.

Everyone’s personal essentials are going to look a bit different, but you can use most of the items below to customize this section of your in-flight personal item packing list. Generally this section consists of sanitation and medical products.

Hand sanitizer. Make sure to pick a travel sized one that holds 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less. Anything larger will get tossed out at security. The one I have linked here is a hydrating sanitizer that has a convenient shape that is easy to pack in your personal item.
Sanitizing wipes. On the topic of cleanliness, I read a study somewhere that the dirtiest part of a plane is the tray table. We all know the seats and tray tables don’t get cleaned as thoroughly as they should between flights, so if you’re looking for an extra level of cleanliness, be sure to bring some travel sized cleaning wipes. I’ve encountered a good number of airlines lately that have passed out sanitizing wipes as I entered the plane, so I’m sure if you don’t bring these and find that you need them, a flight attendant should be able to provide you with one or something similar.
Tissues. A small travel pack of tissues is always useful to include in your personal item. From having a runny nose, to cleaning up a quick spill, to wiping tears during your 4th sappy in-flight rom-com, tissues always come in handy.
Mouthwash. I’ve learned that mints don’t always do the trick. To keep yourself minty fresh, pick up a travel sized mouthwash to keep in your personal item. Be sure the size is 3.4 ounces/100 milliliters or less to comply with airline regulations.
Toothbrush and toothpaste. To feel even more fresh, pack a travel sized toothbrush and toothpaste. If you’re lucky enough to be flying business or first class, these are often provided in the complimentary travel amenity kit.
Medications. This one feels like it should go without saying, but be sure to bring any necessary medications with you in your personal item, or at the very least, in your carry-on bag. Never leave your important medications in your checked bag in the off-chance that it gets lost by the airline. Be sure to pack other convenient medications for things like headaches, or anything else similar you may need to ensure your flight is comfortable. I’ve linked a cute multi-pill holder here that can be used both on the plane and to carry your meds for the trip.

Beauty Essentials

For those who could care less about their appearance when flying, feel free to skip this section. But for those wanting to improve on their natural beauty while remaining relatively low-key, this section is a great one to include on your in-flight personal item packing list. I’ve definitely been guilty of putting on a fresh face of full makeup before landing when needing to go straight from the plane to a meeting or photo worthy moment, but I try to avoid carrying a full makeup bag when flying simply to save the space in my personal item. Below are simple items to achieve a pleasant look without too much effort.

Facial cleansing wipes. These come individually wrapped, and are perfect for achieving a fresh face within seconds. They are also great for removing any existing makeup you may have been wearing.
Tinted facial moisturizer. This is a great product to keep your face moisturized and give it a bit of tone correction without putting in the effort of a full on concealer and foundation.
Eyeshadow stick. This product is easy to pack and an easy way to brighten up your tired eyes.
Tinted chapstick. Moisturizing those lips while bringing a bit of color is a great way to do wonders with minimal effort.
Hairbrush. You may be surprised how many people forget to pack a hairbrush. Bring a light, travel sized one to save space. The only thing worse than bed-head is ten-hours-trying-to-sleep-in-economy head.
Small travel mirror. Always a smart idea to pack on of these in your personal item, so you can fix yourself up at your seat and not have to hold up the line for the shared restroom.

Entertainment Essentials

One thing is that is absolutely needed on a long flight is keeping yourself entertained. Let’s hope that your flight has a touch screen with tons of movies and games. But in that chance that it doesn’t, or if you’d just like a variety of entertainment options, these items below are great to add to your in-flight personal item packing list.

Book or e-reader. An e-reader is great for storing many reading options without risking the space in your bag.
Headphones. I always bring my own pair of wired headphones not only to have on my trip, but also to be able to have my own pair to plug into the airline touch screen device. I tend to prefer my own over the free pairs that airlines give out. Noise canceling headphones are the ultimate bonus. If you prefer AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones, you can purchase one of these AirFly Bluetooth transmitters that allow you to pair them with the airline touch screen device.
Back up power bank. This is an essential item for any trip, just in case your electronic devices need a charge. Some airlines have outlets or USB ports for charging, but I always bring my back up power bank just in case.

Fun Extras

Cover image for fun in-flight items, including a word search book, playing cards, a cocktail mixing kit, and a mandala adult coloring book.

These items are non-essential, but are fun to add to your in-flight personal item packing list if you have some room to spare.

In-flight cocktail kit. For those who prefer a craft cocktail mid-flight, bring one of these kits along. Order a drink from the flight attendant, and impress those around you with your mixology skills.
Airline seat back organizer. Depending on the space you have available between the seat and your knees, these seat back organizers are a great way to keep your in-flight essentials clean, organized, and within reach at all times.
Word search books or adult coloring books. Don’t forget the pens and colored pencils! If you bring these with extras to spare with your seat mates, you will be the hero of your aisle.
Playing cards. I always pack a deck playing cards on every trip. You can always play solitaire, but you never know who you may meet that wants to play.

Summary: In-flight personal item packing list

A well thought-out packing list and well prepared personal item can be the key to a smooth in-flight experience. The trick is to ensure everything you bring is travel sized to avoid making the bag too heavy. Leave all unnecessary items behind and pack only the essentials, that way the only thing you have to worry about on board is which movie to watch next. So sit back, make sure your tray tables are in the up-right position during takeoff, and enjoy your flight.

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In Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree Packing List

Having been to Joshua Tree National Park several times, I know a good packing list can come in handy. Every visit I have done to Joshua Tree has been via road trip, so I’ve included lots of road trip packing list items below as well. And depending on whether your camping in the park or staying at a nearby Airbnb or hotel, there are different items that will need to be on your list. Browse my comprehensive list of thing to bring to Joshua Tree below, including what to pack for the car, what to bring on a hike through the park, and camp necessities for spending a night under the stars.

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Joshua Tree Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden

Packing List for the Road Trip to Joshua Tree

The road trip to Joshua Tree is the first part of the vacation, so you want to make sure you’re off to a smooth start. Everyone is a bit different in terms of what they need to keep in the car, but here are some essential packing list items to get you started:

Comfort Items for your Car

Driver’s seat: If you’re going to be sitting a long time, consider a seat belt cover to protect your shoulder, or a lumbar back support pillow that attaches to the seat.
Nap time: If you’ve got passengers looking to take a nap, be sure to grab one of these twisty neck pillows and some silk sleep masks for the family. Earplugs or headphones are always a great idea for any Joshua Tree Packing List.
Blankets are always a must, whether you’re planning to sleep in the car or if you just have passengers who tend to get cold. A simple throw blanket is always a good thing to keep in the back seat.
Overnight: If overnighting in your car on the way to Joshua Tree, browsing these blow up car mattresses may be a good choice.

Car Organization and Storage for Your Road Trip

A key factor to ensuring a smooth road trip is good organization. Your Joshua Tree packing list should include plenty of items to bring, but also plans on where to store them and how to organize them in the car. Here are some essentials for keep everything in place.

Front Seat: Seat gap organizers are a nice way to fill unused space and also keep things from slipping through the seat gaps.
Back Seat: Seat back organizers are great whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family. They are easy to reach from the driver’s seat, or they are great easy storage for back seat travelers. Hanging seat back trash cans are essential as well for keeping the car nice and clean.
Trunk: The trunk is a great space you can really optimize. I recommend this large organizer that extends across your back seat row, or these smaller collapsible trunk organizers.

Spotting Joshua Trees on a road trip through the desert

Silhouette of a Joshua Tree against the sky

Car Safety and Other Misc Items to Pack

When creating a Joshua Tree packing list, it’s always important to remember the safety items. At times, you may be out in a remote desert area, so it’s always best to be prepared. And there are some other miscellaneous and fun car items for your packing list here as well.

First Aid: A first aid kit is a must have for your car.
Roadside Emergencies: Keeping a roadside emergency kit in the car is great idea, as well as an emergency power station, just in case.
Powering Electronics: If you need more USB ports in your car, be sure to bring a USB 4-port power converter. Car power converters exist with regular US electronic outlets if needed.
Fun Stuff: Be sure to throw in some fun items as well, like a road tripping t-shirt or a road trip game.

Packing List for Inside Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is massive, so if you’re planning on driving through it or well into the middle of it, it’s best to make sure your packing list is ready and you have everything you need. Below I’ve listed some basic items to bring hiking, as well as some camping items for when you’re staying overnight at one of the park campgrounds.

Hiking at Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park with an insulated water cooler, a key item for a desert packing list — Hiking at Keys View in Joshua Tree National Park

If Taking a Hike in Joshua Tree National Park

There are a lot of great hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, ranging from easy-paced to strenuous. Depending on the type of hike you’re planning to do, you may need any or all of the following items.

The right backpack: Be sure to get a lightweight hiking day pack pack if going out for a long trek. An insulated cooler backpack may be best if heading out for a picnic lunch, or you may want to go all in with a picnic supplies backpack, which includes a picnic blanket and an insulated cooler wine pouch.
Plenty of water: Always add plenty of water to your Joshua Tree packing list. I recommend a hydroflask to keep your water cool and a can cooler to keep your canned beverages cool. To flavor up your water and make sure you get plenty of electrolytes, these electrolyte drink tablets are lightweight to pack and great for dropping into your water bottle.
Sun protection: Be sure to bring sunglasses, and protect your face with a baseball cap or fishing hat. Pack plenty of sunscreen, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen made for your face, and a good SPF lip balm.

Clothing made for desert hikes: Be sure to dress appropriately for the desert. Wear lightweight, breathable fabric and sturdy shoes. Hiking shoes are recommended, and preferably long pants to protect your legs from cacti, shrubs, and snakes.
First aid kit: A small first aid kit is always recommended for any Joshua Tree packing list, esecially if out for a hike. Scrapes, bites, or accidents are never expected, but it’s always best to be prepared.
Tech items: A back up power bank is a great idea in case your phone or other equipment needs a charge. A compass carabiner is a great tool to clip on your bag just in case. A chargeable pocket fan is fun for keeping cool while on the go, and a GoPro Camera is an exciting way to improve your Joshua Tree hiking photography.

Packing List for Camping at Joshua Tree National Park

There are several awesome campgrounds to choose from inside Joshua Tree National Park. Be sure to research the campground ahead of time to see which necessities you will need. Below are some camp sleeping and kitchen basics to get you started.

Desert camping with a cooler, insulated water bottle, beer, hat, and book — Relaxing on hammock in Joshua Tree

Campground Sleeping Items

Camping tent: Depending on the size of your group, there are various sizes to choose from. I love this 6 person Coleman tent with built-in lighting and a porch. For smaller sizes, I recommend this Coleman 2 person tent with sun cover.
Sleeping items: Sleeping bags and foldable sleeping mats, or, depending on the level of comfort your group requires, an airbed with built in pump.
Light: There are plenty of hanging light options for inside the tent. Be sure to also bring a small flashlight or headlamp for walking around at night.
Music: On every trip I recommend bringing a bluetooth speaker.

Boulder scrambling in Joshua Tree with sun protection — The giant boulders are one of my favorite photo spots in Joshua Tree

Campground Kitchen Items

Camp cookware set. These heavy duty pots and pans can go over the fire. It comes with camp utensils as well. I like these sets because they all pack together nicely into one compact bag.
Foldable camp kitchen. I think these are genius. This one contains a large, heat resistant surface, perfect for your pots and pans or camp stove. It has shelving for storage, a hook for a light, and a collapsible sink with drain. And they are easy to collapse for quick take down.
A good cooler. I have this Coleman heavy duty cooler and keeps things cold for several days.
Campfire roasting sticks. These are extendible and perfect for roasting s’mores or hotdogs over the campfire. One of the most fun items that I would recommend for a Joshua Tree packing list.
Camping stove. I use this Coleman model and I love it. It has two burners and folds closed for easy packing. Be sure bring propane for the camp stove.
Steel kettle with nesting cups. Nice for camping and hiking.

Cooking utensils and equipment. I recommend buying one of these cookware packs with carrying case. It includes so many things like spatulas, serving spoons, knives, tongs, a cutting board, bottle opener, gloves, and spice shakers. It helps take the guessing out of what kitchen accessory items to pack for Joshua Tree.
Paper plates if you want to limit the amount of dishes to wash.
Eating utensils. If you’re doing to do disposable, go compostable.
Coffee percolator that can be put over the fire. Don’t forget a pack of fun camping mugs.
Collapsible camping sink. Also doubles as a picnic basket.
Biodegradable Campsuds. Can be used on dishes, but is also multi-purpose and can be used on clothing, hands, or face.
Some foldable camp chairs. These camp chairs have a built-in insulated can cooler.

Relaxing in with a cooler and folding camp chair, essential items for a Joshua Tree camping list — Camping in Joshua Tree

Emergency and Survival Items

Hand crank device for radio, flashlight, and charging. Great for every day use, or to keep on hand for an emergency.
Plasma lighter. These are only needed for certain situations. They are flameless, rechargable, waterproof, windproof. Perfect for back up or survival situations.
Lifestraw personal water filter. These are small, easy to add to your packing list, and always good to have on hand in Joshua Tree just in case.
Multipurpose rope
Solar generator. Acts as an emergency power station with a bright light, and AC outlet, and 4 USB outlets.
Multi-use compact hatchet tool. Can also be used as a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, wire cutter, and pliers.
Pack of rain ponchos for adults and kids
Emergency thermal blankets
Biodegradable body wipes for keeping clean
Compact microfiber cooling towels

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Explore More Joshua Tree

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In Shop

Thanksgiving Travel Tips

Thanksgiving can be one of the most fun times of year. It’s a chance to gather with family and friends and share some home cooked food. For many, this will be one of the first times seeing some family since the quarantine of 2020, so be sure to plan ahead and getting all your travel elements booked ahead of time. Below are some Thanksgiving travel tips on booking hotels, flights, and cars, as well as some links to view my 4 hand-selected Thanksgiving themed shopping lists.

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When to Book Hotels

Book hotels as early as possible. With everyone eager to get out of the house during their holiday time off, hotels are booking up quick. I recommend using Expedia or Hotels.com to find the best available pricing. Most hotels these days have an expedited contactless check in. Be sure to check and see if your hotel has an app to streamline the check in and out process.

How to Book Your Flights

Check and double airline details. If looking to purchase airfare, be sure to check the airline’s change options should you need to change your travel plans. Airlines with flexible offers are best in today’s world where covid restrictions and travel guidelines change frequently. Prepay your luggage fees ahead of time and be sure to do the online check-in 24 hours prior to departure to ensure a smooth airport experience. Stick to a carry-on sized bag to avoid having to check in larger luggage. This will reduce time spent waiting in airport lines and eliminate any risk of an airline losing your bag. Check my inflight travel essentials for carry-on packing tips.

Rental Car Tips

Plan ahead and book car rentals ahead of time. Car rental prices are skyrocketing these days due to car rental shortages all around the US caused by the pandemic. Be sure to book in advance while there are still cars available. Check the rental’s change policies to ensure flexibility in your travel plans.

Why You Should Book Travel Insurance

I always recommended travel insurance, even before the pandemic. These days you just can’t be too careful. Depending on where you’re traveling and what you’ll be doing, be sure to check your insurance options. Also always be sure to read the terms and conditions and FAQ’s to make sure you’re covered for all the right reasons.

What to Bring on Your Trip

Traveling for Thanksgiving? Check out my hand-selected items that I recommend Packing for Thanksgiving Travel. Browse my shopping list of things like back-up power banks, vaccine card holders, and packing cubes.
Wondering what to bring to your dinner event this year? Browse my shopping list of What to Bring to Thanksgiving Dinner to get tips on gifts, game ideas, and useful containers for transporting those precious deserts and appetizers.
Are you the host of Thanksgiving dinner this year? Lucky you. Check out my shopping list for Hosting Thanksgiving Dinner to get some fresh decor and table setting ideas to your delight your dinner guests.
Planning to have kids around this Thanksgiving? Check out my shopping list for Thanksgiving With Kids to browse Thanksgiving games, activities, and other items to keep them busy while you enjoy your dinner and adult time.

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In Central California

Housekeeping Camp Packing List

This packing list has been perfected from multiple multiple stays at Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite National Park. Find tips on what you need inside your unit, outside your unit, suggestions for personal items, and ideas on how to get that ultimate glamping experience. Also be sure to read my post Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite: Everything You Need to Know.

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Packing List: Inside the Unit

Inside Set Up:

Rug for inside the unit. Gives you a clean floor and provides that extra touch of home comfort. I recommend a size of 4 x 6 inches. Go for a dark color or one that is easily cleaned.
Top sheet, pillows, and blankets. There is one double bed and one bunk bed in each unit.
Cleaning spray or wipes. It will be dusty when you get there.
Extension cords
Power strip if needed. There is only pair of outlets in the unit. Be careful not to use too many electronics at once to avoid shorting out the power (this has definitely happened to me before when using multiple items and then trying to use my hairdryer).
USB port for using and charging multiple electronics at once.

Bunk beds inside unit — Inside a housekeeping unit: Bunk beds, a double bed, shelving, mirror, light, and outlet.

Double bed inside unit — Inside a housekeeping unit: Bunk beds, a double bed, shelving, mirror, light, and outlet.

Personal Items:

Sleep mask. The unit gets pretty bright in the morning.
Ear plugs
Electric fan. It will keep air circulating in your unit and will also double as a white noise machine at night.
Bath towels
Shower shoes or flip flops for shared showers. This is a must for any Housekeeping Camp packing list.
Books, games, cards (there isn’t much to do after dark).

Packing List: Outside the Unit

Cooking Supplies:

Camping stove. I use this Coleman model and I love it. It has two burners and folds closed for easy packing. If you want to get super luxe, get the griddle too (pancakes, anyone?).
Propane for the camp stove
Camp cookware set. These heavy duty pots and pans can go over the fire. It comes with camp utensils as well. I like these sets because they all pack together nicely into one compact bag.
Cooking utensils and equipment. I recommend buying one of these cookware packs with carrying case. It includes so many things like spatulas, serving spoons, knives, tongs, a cutting board, bottle opener, gloves, and spice shakers. It helps take the guessing out of what kitchen accessory items to pack for Yosemite.
Paper plates if you want to limit the amount of dishes to wash.
Eating utensils. If you’re doing to do disposable, go compostable.
Coffee percolator that can be put over the fire. Since there are outlets in your outdoor cooking area, you are able to bring an electric coffee pot if you like. Don’t forget a pack of fun camping mugs.
Axe for chopping firewood. Firewood is sold at the general store and comes in good sized logs. You will want to split those up for the best fires.
Newspaper or other fire starter to help get your fire going.
Campfire roasting sticks. These are extendible and perfect for roasting s’mores or hotdogs over the campfire. This is one of the most fun housekeeping camp items I would recommend for your packing list.

Camp Stove and Coffee Percolator — Using my coffee percolator on my camping stove, and a capture of the semi-enclosed outside patio with a picnic table, shelving, light, and outlet.

Outside area with cooking surface and picnic table at Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite — Using my coffee percolator on my camping stove, and a capture of the semi-enclosed outside patio with a picnic table, shelving, light, and outlet.

Cleanup:

Dish soap and sponge for dishes. Plus an extra bag to store your wet sponge after use. Tip: There is only cold water in the dish sinks.
Tupperware and/or foil for leftovers if you’re planning on cooking.
Zip lock bags. I never leave without my zip locks. These are useful for packing sandwiches for picnics, securing leaky toiletry items, or packing some leftovers to store in your cooler.
Trash bags. I’m serious about the trash bags. You will need to dispose of your trash multiple times a day to keep it from animals. I also use a couple trash bags to line the food storage locker. Save the earth and go biodegradable.
Tissue and paper towels

Housekeeping Camp Unit with Patio, Picnic Table, and Food Storage — Food Storage Container at Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite

Misc Outside Items for Your Packing List:

Rope always seems to come in handy for all kinds of things: clothing line for drying wet swimsuits and towels, fastening your canvas tarp shut, hanging a drop cloth for extra privacy on your patio.
Clothespins to help secure the above mentioned items.
Combination lock for food storage bin if you want to use it to secure personal items.
Table cloth for picnic table. It will get dusty in the day while you’re out exploring. I recommend a round waterproof one that is easy to wipe clean.
Folding chairs for sitting by the fire pit. I love these chairs with the built in insulated pocket for your drinks and cold snacks!
Extra blankets to cozy up in the unit or while sitting by the fire.
Drop cloth, tarp, extra sheet or thin blanket. This isn’t the most usual thing you will find on other packing lists for Housekeeping Camp in Yosemite, but I find these very useful for hanging with rope if you want a bit more privacy in your patio.
Decorative lights. You will be amazed at what a difference hanging a couple strands of lights in the unit will do. Hang them on the outside too. Go crazy.

Housekeeping Camp Units in Yosemite National Park — Neighboring Units in Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite

For Camping, Safety, Emergency and Tech Items:

My separate, more generic Packing list for Yosemite covers more Yosemite packing list topics in detail, including:

Camping essentials
Health and Safety Items
Emergency and Survival Gear
Recommended Tech Items
Clothing and Protection

Head to Yosemite packing List

I hope this list helps make your visit to the beautiful housekeeping camp a fun one. If you’ve been to housekeeping camp and have a suggestion for this list, please feel free to leave me a comment below.

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Planning a Trip to Yosemite?

Check out my post on 10 Things to Do in Yosemite Valley.
Get great recommendations from my 2 Day Itinerary and my 4 Day Itinerary for Yosemite.
The more detailed Ultimate Yosemite Valley Travel Guide gives you the tips you need to experience the valley like an expert. Learn when to go, where to stay, and what to do.
Be sure to make your reservations ahead of time through Travel Yosemite.

In Europe

Packing List for Santorini

Putting together a packing list for Santorini is an essential step in your vacation planning. Walking amongst the blue church domes and whitewashed houses transports you into a dream. Make sure you’re dressed for it. The iconic sunsets of Oia, the black sand beaches of Fira, and the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean call for plenty of flowy sundresses, straw beach hats, and plenty of elegant beach wear. Read below to get my top picks on what to pack for Santorini. Need tips for vacation planning as well? Check out my article on Things to Do in Oia, Santorini.

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Duffle Bag	Features	Price Range
Paravel: Mini Main Line Duffle	Small. Classic look. Perfect for a weekend.	$$$
BEIS: Mini Duffle	Small. Tons of pockets. Won’t get dirty.	$$
Herschel: Novel Duffle	Medium. Chic look. Side shoe pocket.	$$
Madden Girl: Nylon Weekender	Medium. Tie Dye. Hard to lose.	$
Paravel: Grand Tour Duffle	Large. Vintage look. Lots of room.	$$$
Topo: Mountain Duffle	Large. Sporty look. Also a backpack.	$$
North Face: Base Camp Duffel	Large. Camp Vibes. Also a backpack.	$$