Your tour includes handling for one piece of checked luggage per person. Because of airline and/or motorcoach restrictions, it is important to limit yourself to this one bag. You may also wish to pack a collapsible bag inside your checked luggage for transporting souvenirs, if you plan on doing a lot of shopping. And if you are traveling with a companion, it’s a good idea to put a change of clothes in the other’s suitcase (and vice versa) in the unfortunate event that one piece of luggage is delayed en route to your destination.

You should also pack a small carry-on with essentials items sufficient for a day or two in case your luggage is delayed in transit:

• Prescription medications
• Eyeglasses/contact lenses
• Important documents
• Electronics and chargers
• One or two outfits
• Toiletries

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Guidelines

TSA guidelines mandate that liquids, gels, creams, or oils passing through U.S. airport security checkpoints must be in a 3.4-ounce container (or smaller). Any substances not following these guidelines will be disposed of by the TSA.

Remember 3-1-1: your liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less; your liquids must fit in one quart-sized clear plastic zip-top bag; and you are allowed one zip-top bag per passenger.

Luggage Security

Follow these tips to help protect your luggage from theft and/or loss:

• Lock your luggage with a TSA-approved lock.
• Attach a colorful ribbon or keychain to the zipper or handle so your luggage is easy to identify on baggage carousels.
• Use your Odysseys Unlimited luggage tags (with your name and address filled in) to help ensure that your luggage accompanies you while on tour. You will receive your luggage tags with your final tour documents approximately three weeks prior to your departure date.

What to Pack

Generally, the “dress code” for our trips is casual. Pack for your comfort by prioritizing comfortable, broken-in walking shoes and clothes you can layer to accommodate varying weather conditions. You may wish to bring one or two nice outfits for welcome and farewell dinners, but it is not expected or required. You’ll also want to plan outfits for any independent activities or events you may participate in during your free time on tour.

See the General Information document on your My Odyssey portal for a packing list with specific recommendations. Also review our comprehensive packing list, linked below, which includes an easy-to-use printable PDF checklist.

The Ultimate Odysseys Unlimited Packing List 

What NOT to Pack

We recommend you DO NOT bring the following items to avoid loss and/or theft while traveling:

• Valuable jewelry
• Precious or sentimental items
• Wedding/engagement rings
• Luxury watches
• Expensive gadgets/technology

You don’t want to ruin your vacation by worrying about your possessions.

Traveling with Electronics

Most international destinations require you to bring a plug adapter in order to use their electric sockets. Your General Information document on your My Odyssey portal details the plug types required for your destination. You can also click here to find the plug type for your destination.

Using Your Cell Phone While Abroad

There are many ways to stay in touch while traveling internationally. Below are some of the most common options:

WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a free, Wi-Fi-based messaging app that allows you to text, call, and send files as long as you have internet access. Many of our tour directors now use WhatsApp to stay in touch with tour members while on tour, so we recommend downloading it prior to your trip.

International Cell Service Plan: To use your cell phone abroad as you do in the U.S., contact your current cell service provider and ask if they offer a short-term international travel plan.

International eSIM/SIM Card: You can purchase an eSIM or SIM card that either allows international calls, texts, and data, or just data. Reliable providers include: KnowRoaming, OneSimCard, Cellular Abroad, and Telestial.

Free Wi-Fi: Some travelers choose to rely on Wi-Fi at hotels, airports, restaurants, and other locations to stay in touch using free apps such as Zoom, WhatsApp, iMessage, and Facebook Messenger. Just be sure to disable cell service on your phone by turning “Airplane Mode” on to avoid roaming charges.