Snowbird Packing List: What Expert Travellers Say You Can’t Travel Without

When you're settling in for several months away from home, every inch of space in your suitcase counts. Every snowbird has their own way of travelling: some settle comfortably into their RV for several months, others set off on adventures in Asia, while others prefer to immerse themselves in European culture.

Between practical items, everyday luxuries, and beginner's mistakes, strategic choices must be made. So, what really deserves a place in your suitcase? 

In this snowbird packing list, you’ll find essentials approved by experienced travellers, along with the reasons they never leave home without them.

Full-Size Creams

For Louise, who spends the winter under the sun in Melaque, Mexico, it's obvious: “Travel sizes don't last three months, and finding my favourite brands abroad isn't always possible.”

Accustomed to longer stays, Lucie prefers to travel light, but she always takes her full-size sunscreen with her to avoid high prices abroad or less effective local brands.

Good Walking Shoes

Linda, who lives in Fuengirola, Spain, does everything on foot: walking along the seashore, exploring local markets, hiking in neighbouring villages… “To really enjoy myself, I need my comfortable shoes.” 

Good shoes are a simple essential, but they can make or break your days abroad.

Reliable Adapters and Chargers

Mary, who regularly stays in Greece, never leaves home without several electrical adapters: “The outlets are not the same as in North America. I always have them on hand, along with chargers for all my devices.” 

The same goes for Gilles and Louise, ambassadors for soNomad, who need to stay connected to power their YouTube channel: VRN'GO.

Lightweight, Quick-Drying Clothing

When travelling for long periods of time, you often have to wash your clothes on the spot. Alain, who has explored Japan, prefers quick-drying clothing: “I can wash them in my hotel room in the evening and wear them again the next morning.”

A Well-Stocked First Aid Kit

Lucie never leaves home without her medication: “I prefer to avoid running around looking for pharmacies in a foreign country.”

A Small Raincoat

With Japan's unpredictable spring weather, Alain makes sure he always has a lightweight raincoat with him to cope with spring showers. It allows him to continue exploring the country at his own pace, rain or shine. 

Linda, on the other hand, relies on a compact windbreaker that she slips into her handbag for strolls along the Paseo in Spain, where evenings can sometimes be cooler.

A Swimsuit

In Thailand, Lucie considers her swimsuit to be her uniform. Beaches, hotel pools, island getaways… “I use it almost every day.”

A Reusable Water Bottle

Alain loves exploring on foot, whether in Japanese gardens or on excursions. He never leaves home without his water bottle: “In Japan, drinking water is available everywhere. It's practical, economical, and eco-friendly.”

Packing Cubes

Mary has found her secret to a well-organized suitcase: “Packing cubes allow me to separate my clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. I can find everything easily.”

A Phone With a Good International Plan

For Michel, who spends every winter in Montpellier, staying connected is essential: “With my Vidéotron plan, I can contact my loved ones as I would do, back home in Quebec. And I use it for everything: finding my way around, planning, and saving good addresses.”

A Notebook (And a Good Old Pencil)

Michel likes to document his discoveries in a notebook: “In the Paris metro or in the narrow streets of Montpellier, I take notes. It helps me remember my favourite finds and is a great way to document itineraries, discoveries, and special moments.”

Snacks From Home

Linda always brings her favourite granola bars: “It's not always easy to find the same brands abroad. I like to have a little taste of home in my luggage.”

A Coffee Machine

Gilles and Louise spend their winters in Melaque, Mexico, in their RV. Since they stay in the same place for several months, they bring a real coffee machine with them in their RV to use every day. This ritual is non-negotiable: “Our mornings under the palapa always start with a good cup of coffee. It's sacred.”

Travel Light... But Well Insured

A snowbird packing list wouldn’t be complete without these essentials that always make it into the suitcases of long-term travellers. One thing you shouldn't overlook: it's better to be prepared. Every little detail can simplify your daily life abroad.

If there's one essential that should never be left behind, it's good travel insurance. Get a quick quote with soNomad and travel with peace of mind.