Be prepared
Packing List
for Student Trips
The following packing list is a compilation of recommendations our staff and past student participants. We are not encouraging you to buy all new items for the sole purpose of your trip. However, if it is on this list, then it is something that we view as important to your comfort, safety and overall preparedness.
If you bring it, you carry it!
One day pack or small backpack
For everyday necessities such as a water bottle, medicines that need to be taken during the day, rain gear, snacks, camera and other such items that you would like access to during the day. Generally, you will repack this bag every day according to the day’s itinerary and it will stay with you for the entirety of each day.
One large suitcase or duffel bag
This bag will contain all of your clothing and items that you do not need with you during the day. It will stay at your accommodations while you are out doing activities. You will have access to this bag in the mornings, during the evenings and whenever you are at your accommodations. You will be responsible for moving your own luggage, so keep this in mind when you are packing!
Getting it there and back
Pack all liquids/gels in your checked bag per TSA regulations. Prior to your departure, check with your airline for changes in regulations and baggage restrictions, including baggage fees.
Essential Items:
- Valid passport (must have at least two pages available for stamping.)
- Photocopy of passport (to keep with you at all times if your teachers holds your passport)
- Spending money / credit card / debit card
- Small daypack/backpack (to be used as carry-on bag)
- Prescription medications packed in carry-on bag, in original bottles with dosage and instruction on how to take them (includes inhalers, EpiPens, etc.)
- Over-the-counter medications for allergies, headaches, small scrapes, etc. with their original dosage and instructions on how to take them
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc.)
- Electrical outlet adapter
Clothing
Consider your trip destination, the season, and weather projections as you review this list:
- Warm coat/jacket
- Winter hat, gloves, scarf
- Sun hat or baseball cap
- Sweaters, hoodies, fleece, etc.
- Long pants/jeans and shorts
- Long-sleeved and short-sleeved shirts
- At least one pair of underwear and socks for each travel day
- Pajamas
- Comfortable walking/hiking sneakers
- Slippers or flip-flops to wear inside the lodging
- A small umbrella, rain jacket, or poncho
Optional Items:
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Big zip-lock plastic bags to hold toiletries, wet clothes, and electronics
- Money belt with neck or waist strap (for money & passport copy)
- Watch
- Dirty laundry bag
Do Not Bring:
- Flashy or expensive jewelry
- Laptops
- Other electronic devices that could be lost or damaged on this trip
Explore ETA’s Other Teacher Resources & Planning Tools
Additional teacher resources to support every stage of planning your student trip, from fundraising and promotion to safety and logistics. These tools help make your school trip a success.
Student Travel FAQ
Get clear answers to common questions about registration, payments, itineraries, accommodations, and more.
Our Trip Planning Process
See the step-by-step timeline for planning your student trip, including key milestones and who’s responsible at each stage.
Fundraising Guide
Access creative fundraising ideas, templates, and planning tips to help every student take part in the travel experience.
Trip Promotion 101
Discover tips and tools to help you promote your trip, build excitement, and boost student participation.
ETA Trip Portal
Easily manage manifests, payments, forms, deadlines, and updates in one secure dashboard to streamline trip planning.
Focus on Safety
Discover how ETA’s safety standards and planning help protect students and support teachers throughout each trip.
Student Code of Conduct
Set clear expectations before your trip. This resource helps you introduce guidelines for respectful, responsible travel behavior.
