LGBTQ+ Packing & Preparation Guide: What to Pack, What to Skip and What Nobody Tells You

Packing should be easy, right? Throw in some shorts, swimwear, a toothbrush and you're good to go. Well, not quite — especially if you're queer, flying long-haul and headed somewhere where laws, climates and attitudes can be wildly different from home.

This guide is here to help you pack with confidence, stay safe, and look good doing it — with tips from years of travel fails, fashion meltdowns and sunscreen regrets.

Let’s Talk Luggage

We travel light — but not that light. A carry-on works for weekends, but if you're going intercontinental, splash out on a decent hard-shell suitcase. Trust us — your outfits deserve protection.

Use packing cubes. Not because they’re trendy — because they work. One for tops, one for bottoms, one for undies and swimwear, one for chaos (chargers, meds, lube, you name it).

And for the love of all things queer — leave space for souvenirs. You will buy things. You will run out of space. Plan ahead.

The Underrated Essentials

A Travel Laundry Kit

A ziplock bag with detergent sheets and a sink stopper has saved us more times than we can count. Washing underwear in a tiny hotel sink by headlamp is more glamorous than it sounds. Slightly.

SPF Lip Balm

Nobody tells you this. You’ll use lip balm. The sun will still win. Protect those kissable lips.

Printed Travel Docs

Yes we’re digital. Yes we’ve been burned by dead batteries and dodgy border guards. Print your hotel confirmation and entry visa just in case.

A Mini First Aid Kit

Especially if you're heading off the beaten path. Include: plasters, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol, allergy tabs and Imodium. You’ll thank us when the street food hits back.

LGBTQ+ Specific Items We Always Pack

A Discreet Pride Accessory

Nothing that screams rainbow glitter cannon, but a little nod — like a bracelet or subtle pin — is perfect for sparking conversations in welcoming destinations.

A Decoy Dating App

Some countries do not play nice with queer travellers. If you're using dating apps, set up a fake one with no real info, just in case you need a distraction or cover story.

Your Most You Outfit

That look that makes you feel untouchable. Whether it’s a mesh tank, a flowing maxi dress or a tailored blazer — bring it. Even if you only wear it once. Travel is for moments.

Clothes: The Essentials List

1 fancy evening outfit (for dinners, rooftop bars, or surprise drag shows)
2-3 casual outfits (t-shirts, shorts, jeans)
1-2 swimsuits (make sure at least one makes you feel sexy)
Activewear (for hikes, yoga, running from airport gate to gate)
Flip flops + walking shoes + going out shoes (that won’t kill your feet)
Light jacket or hoodie (planes and night buses are iceboxes)
Underwear for one week, minimum

Pro Tip: Always pack a spare pair in your carry-on. Luggage gets lost. Nobody wants to rewear airport boxers.

Skincare and Toiletries: Queer and Clear

Bring your favourites in mini bottles — travel is no time for breakouts or experimental moisturisers. And if you’re flying somewhere hot, keep it light. Think gel moisturiser, not thick cream.

Yes, pack the SPF. Yes, even if you think you don’t burn. Yes, even if it’s cloudy. No, we don’t want to hear it.

Also — pack lube. Most countries don’t sell the good stuff, and it’s weird asking the pharmacist.

The Tech List

Portable charger (life saver at 4am with no outlet in sight)
Plug adaptors (get the international kind)
Noise-cancelling headphones (drown out screaming babies and public homophobia)
Backup USB stick (for storing copies of your passport, visa, health docs)

Airport Outfit Tips

Go for layers. Comfy trousers. A tee. A hoodie. Compression socks if you’re on a long-haul. And something with pockets — trust us, you’ll need them.

Skip belts and jewellery to fly through security like the gender-diverse superstar you are.

Travel Prep That No One Tells You

Check LGBTQ+ Laws Before You Fly

Some places are less safe than others. Research local laws and attitudes — and decide what level of openness feels safe for you.

Screenshot Everything

Your hotel address, booking details, emergency contacts — download and screenshot in case you lose signal or data.

Meds? Bring Extra

Always bring more than you need — especially if it’s prescription. You don’t want to run out mid-jungle trek or Pride parade.

Final Thoughts: Pack Light, Travel Loud

Travelling as an LGBTQ+ person means packing for more than just weather. You pack for comfort. For safety. For joy. For expression. For protection. For the what ifs and the hell yeses.

Our advice? Pack what makes you feel fabulous. Leave space for adventure. And never forget your SPF.

Quick Checklist

Passport and documents
Outfits for heat, cold and glam
Swimwear (at least one hot one)
Travel-sized toiletries and skincare
Tech and chargers
Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Travel insurance confirmation
Emergency meds
Personal item for self-expression

More Gay Travel Inspiration

Want more guides and travel tips with a fabulous twist? Check out our other blog posts:

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube @planessightsandboyfriends for laughs, looks and the occasional flight delay meltdown.

Got a packing hack we missed? Drop it in the comments — we love learning from fellow travellers.