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Essential List of What to Bring on Your Japan Trip
Traveling to Japan always makes me giddy and I can’t help but imagine all the activities to do and food I’ll eat when I get there.
Japan is winning destination all-year round and a true sanctuary for the senses, which is why thorough planning and coming up with an itinerary is a must to make the trip memorable.
To make sure you enjoy your Japan trip in the future, we rounded up an essential list of things to bring from clothes, gadgets, and bags – here you go!
Cash and credit card
A general rule when traveling; never ever go out without a cash with you. And just in case you ran out of cash, there comes the credit card to save the day. Just be cautious of your expenses. There’s also an app called Clarity Money where you can track your finances and list your previous spending.
Book a pocket wifi or buy a Data Simcard
Well, of course, you wouldn’t want to miss to share the fun in Japan with your friends and followers on your social media, right? We suggest you book portable wifi or a data sim card so you can surf anytime and anywhere.
Smartphone
In case you get lost in the city, a smartphone can surely rescue you. It’s also much better if you have an app with you, say google maps. Also, this is a good alternative if you’re camera ran out of batteries.
Universal Power Adapter
ICYMI, there are arrays of power socket and outlets in different countries. Globetrotters make sure they bring a universal power adapter all the time. Get one from Amazon.
Power bank
Never ever miss a special moment just because of a drained gadget or batteries. Make sure to always bring a trusted power bank. If you think it’s bulky, you can buy a Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger that can fit into your day bag.
Japan Rail Pass
The best thing about having a Japan Rail Pass is that it’s cost-effective. However, just bear in mind that it must be used on consecutive days within its allotted timeframe. To learn more about this pass, where you can buy one, and types of passes, visit our Japan Rail Pass post.
Also see: How to Get a JR Pass in the Philippines?
Right amount of clothes for the weather
Dress well cos you have to do it for the gram. Make the most of your travel photos by choosing the perfect clothes whatever the weather is. If you’ll notice how the locals dress, they focus on the minimalist approach, by choosing one pattern, and neutral colors. Don’t forget to bring the best layers, insulated jacket, and scarf for cold months, while airy outerwear, cardigan (optional) and perhaps jeans for summer.
Also, take note that Japanese culture is modest, and are very careful on what to wear. Make sure to wear proper and modest clothes when visiting spiritual places.
Appropriate Footwear
Decisions, decisions. Choosing what footwear to bring is so tedious, isn’t it?
Since we would like an appropriate kawaii look for our Japan OOTDs, we suggest you take the weather into consideration. If you’re visiting Japan in winter, bring Timberland boots or similar and double socks, as it’ll keep you comfy, warm, and safe from the slippery roads.
On normal days, you can bring a slip on and slip off, because some establishments will require you to remove your shoes.
Passport Pouch / Travel Wallet
Remind yourself to be organized all the time. You don’t want to lose any documents or files during the trip, right? If you still haven’t got any passport pouch or an RFID Travel wallet, you can check out Bellroy Travel Folio for sturdy varieties of pouch and travel wallets or better get a Pacsafe Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Travel Wallet.
Guidebook
If you’re traveling alone, you may think of trusting travel websites and guides to help you roam around a city or a country. We suggest you check out Lonely Planet Guidebook for Japan (Get it from Amazon). They have rounded pretty much all the most interesting sights and activities in the world, but most especially in Japan.
Medications / First Aid Kit
You never know what’s going to happen once you’re in another country. In case you got a cold or allergies, it’s always smart to bring a first aid kit.
Souvenirs from home
Not necessary though, but I believe that it’s a nice gesture to give gifts to new friends overseas. Whenever I go to Japan, I always bring dried mangoes and give it new acquaintances, from tour guides or just random people I travel with.
Camera
No trip is ever complete without bringing the best point-and-shoot or digital camera. It’s one of the must-haves to capture the best moments! Make sure you bring an extra SD card and battery. But of course, you can also download some photo editing apps like VSCO and Snapseed which are both available in Android and iPhone devices. If you want to leave it filter-free, then it’s good too.
Day bag / small backpack
Traveling light is the key to a hassle-free trip to Japan. Choose something where you can fit it all the essentials, from the passport pouch, phone, and camera.
Packable Tote Bags
A responsible traveler is those that is also caring for the environment. Forget using plastics and bring your own tote bag, especially shopping for souvenirs. You can also bring reliable water filler to and refill it in the hotel before you leave so you won’t have to buy outside.
International Drivers Permit (IDP) for Japan
If you want to make the most out of your visit to Japan, you’ve probably thought of renting a car. Well, if you plan to do so, make sure you bring an International Drivers Permit or IDP. For more information about the permit, check this link.
Also see:
- How to get a Japanese Visa: A Step-By-Step Guide For Filipino Travelers
- Fukuoka Bucket List: Top 17 Best Things to do in Fukuoka, Japan
- Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Shirakawa-Go, Japan
- Kanazawa Bucket List: Top 15 Best Things to do in Kanazawa, Japan
