Packing for Japan: Your Ultimate Travel Guide!
Packing for an epic adventure in Japan can be a delightful yet daunting task! With so many exciting things to see and do, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need without overstuffing your suitcase. Let’s dive into a fun-filled exploration of the 7 Travel Necessities for Japan that will ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey!
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1. Your Trusty Suitcase: The Foundation of Your Adventure
Okay, this one might seem like a no-brainer, but hear me out! Japan’s bustling train stations can feel like a scene straight out of a movie, with swarms of people darting around. That’s why packing light is crucial! Aim for no more than two suitcases per person, and keep your suitcase size to a maximum of 25 inches. Anything larger might as well come with a ‘please trip me’ sticker.
We swear by our 21-inch and 25-inch Travel Pro Versapack spinner suitcases. They’re made from ballistic nylon, which is basically superhero material for luggage! These bad boys come with Travel Pro’s PrecisionGlide System wheels, making them a breeze to navigate through crowded platforms. Seriously, these are the best suitcases we’ve ever laid our hands on!
2. The Essential Backpack: Your Personal Treasure Chest
When you’re wandering around the enchanting streets of Japan, a backpack is your best friend. Not only does it hold your camera gear, snacks, hydration, and essentials, but it also doubles as an overnight bag! If you’re like us and enjoy spontaneous adventures, sending your suitcase ahead while you explore for a night is the way to go.
We have different preferences when it comes to backpack sizes. I go for a hefty 24 to 28 liters, while Becki prefers a chic 17 to 20 liters. Her favorite is the North Face Isabella 17-liter backpack, which can fit her laptop and overnight essentials. I’m currently rocking the North Face Roamer Day 24.5-liter backpack, which is a bit of a rare find. But I’m eyeing the Tropicfeel’s Shell backpack, which can expand from 20 to 40 liters! How cool is that?
3. Japan Rail Pass: Your Ticket to Adventure
Let’s be real, if you’re not doing the BIG BUS tour in Japan, you’re going to need a Japan Rail Pass. This golden ticket lets you hop on and off the famed Shinkansen bullet trains, giving you the freedom to explore the country at lightning speed! Not only that, but you can also use it for local JR trains, JR tourist buses, and JR ferries. Keep in mind it doesn’t cover subways or private train lines, but the savings on JR tickets will have you doing a happy dance!
4. Pocket WiFi or SIM Card: Stay Connected!
In this digital age, connectivity is essential, especially when you’re in a foreign land. Trust me, you’ll want to have internet access for maps, translations, and sharing those breathtaking photos on social media. Free WiFi is like that elusive Pokémon; it’s out there, but good luck finding it!
Your best bet is to rent a pocket WiFi device, a small portable router that keeps you connected wherever you roam. You can pick one up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel—super convenient! If you have an unlocked phone and prefer a SIM card, that’s an option too, though keep in mind you won’t get a phone number. But hey, who needs that when you have the entire internet at your fingertips?
5. Comfy Shoes: Your Feet’s Best Friends
Japan is a land of walking, and trust me, your feet will thank you for comfy shoes! Between the bustling streets and beautiful temples, you’ll be on your feet more than you think. We recommend bringing two pairs: a good pair of breathable walking or running shoes and a pair of water-resistant shoes for those unexpected rainy days.
My go-to is the Adidas Busenitz for rainy days, while Becki loves her Adidas Campus shoes. And don’t forget the socks! Bring plenty of clean, hole-free socks because you’ll be taking off your shoes more often than you’d expect. You can even grab some comfy socks at convenience stores if you forget!
6. Toiletries: Keep it Familiar!
While most hotels in Japan provide shampoo, conditioner, and soap, don’t expect to find your beloved lotion in the room. Japanese lotion can be quirky, and who knows, it might even include a whitening agent! Bring your own toiletries like lotion, deodorant, and toothpaste to avoid any surprises. Trust me; you don’t want to experience the confusion of trying to figure out what a ‘Japanese brand’ is when you’re running low on essentials.
7. Medicine: Be Prepared!
Japan is pretty strict about over-the-counter medications. So if you rely on specific meds like Tylenol or allergy medicine, pack them in their original prescription bottles. Japan has different brand names and active ingredients, so it’s better to be safe than sorry! This way, you won’t have to explain to customs why you have a mystery pill container!
Bonus Necessities: Time and Coins
Time is of the essence in Japan. Trains run on the dot, so having a reliable watch or clock is a must. And let’s talk about coins! Japanese coins are surprisingly valuable, with the largest being a 500 yen coin worth about $5. Having a cute little change purse will keep your coins organized and ready to use, because trust me, you’ll accumulate a lot!
Ready for an incredible journey? Discover Japan planning secrets with our best-selling Itinerary Planning Course or inquire about our exclusive Small Group Tours. Let’s make your Japan trip unforgettable!
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