STOP Overpacking! Japan Travel Hacks You Need to Know

STOP Overpacking! Japan Travel Hacks You Need to Know

Hi, I’m Toshi from Japan and tourist guide for foreigners. In this video, I will show you 45 Packing Tips for traveling to Japan in 2026. In an earlier video, I explained 25 items you can’t bring into Japan. But Japan’s rules — and airline rules — keep changing. And after guiding over 200 travelers, I’ve learned a lot about what people actually needed, what they never used, and what caused problems. So for 2026, I’ve updated and expanded the list to 45 items. In this video, I’ll cover five key points:
what you should pack, what you don’t need, and what you must never bring to Japan. I’ll also explain the confusing items allowed by many airlines but not by Japanese airlines, and the things banned worldwide but still allowed here. Knowing these rules matters. Prohibited items can be taken away, fined, or even lead to entry issues. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to pack for a smooth and safe trip to Japan. Plus, I also offer guided tours in Japan, travel itineraries based on trip duration and area, and recommendations for unique cultural experiences. You can find more information in the description below. So, let’s get started. 13 Must-Bring Items for Japan When traveling to Japan, it’s essential to pack light. This will make carrying and managing your luggage easier and more comfortable, and you can avoid excess baggage fees on flights and trains. However, there are 8 must-bring items for every traveler to Japan, which I’ll cover in this section. These are essential items that you should definitely pack for your trip to Japan. Number 1, “Luggage space” If you’re coming to Japan, chances are you’ll end up buying a lot of souvenirs—anime merch, Japanese snacks, local food, sake, skincare products, and more. Many of the travelers I’ve guided ended up running out of space in their suitcase and had to buy an extra one in Japan—or pay for international shipping. And almost all of them said the same thing: “I had an empty suitcase at home… I should’ve just brought it!” So here’s my advice: plan ahead and leave room in your luggage for all the stuff you’ll want to bring back. Number 2, “Clothing” Since clothes take up the most space in your luggage, consider two important factors: First, think about the time of year you’ll be visiting Japan. Japan has four distinct seasons, each with different temperatures and weather. In summer, it gets very hot, so pack T-shirts and shorts. In spring and autumn, it can be chilly, so bring a jacket and long pants. In winter, it’s quite cold, so you’ll need a coat, scarf, and gloves. Second, consider the area you’ll be visiting. Japan is a long country with varying climates. The northern region, like Hokkaido, is cold, while the southern region, like Okinawa, is warm. The climate changes depending on where you go, so check the weather of your destination in advance. Number 3, “Hand Towel” Here’s something you might not expect—many public restrooms in Japan don’t have paper towels or hand dryers. Why? Well, in Japan, it’s common for people to carry their own handkerchief or small towel to dry their hands. And while some places used to have hand dryers, many of them were turned off or removed during the pandemic and never came back. So if you’re visiting Japan, make sure to bring a small hand towel with you. You’ll definitely use it more than you think. Number 4, “Portable Phone Charger” During your trip, you’ll likely use your smartphone more than usual. You’ll rely on map apps to navigate, translation apps to communicate with locals, and you’ll probably want to share your experiences on social media. This increased usage means your phone’s battery will drain faster than usual. In Japan, finding free phone charging stations on the go can be quite challenging. So, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, make sure to bring a portable phone charger with you. Number 5, “Plug Adapter” Different countries have different plug shapes, and Japan uses type A plugs, the same as in the United States and Taiwan. If you’re coming from a country with the same plug shape, you don’t need an adapter. But if you’re coming from a country with a different plug shape, you’ll need one. If you forget, don’t worry—you can buy one at an electronics store in Japan. Also, Japan’s voltage is 100V, so for some electronic devices, you might need a voltage converter. However, for devices like iPhones and MacBooks that have global hardware specifications, you won’t need a converter. Number 6, “Folding Umbrella” If you’ve seen my video about Japan’s rainy season, you already know—Japan gets a lot of rain, not just in summer but all year round. Unlike the sudden downpours in Southeast Asia, rain in Japan often lasts all day. That means if you don’t have an umbrella, you might end up stuck indoors. In Japan, people usually open their umbrellas as soon as it starts raining, and many carry a folding umbrella in their bag just in case. If you forget one, don’t worry—you can easily buy one at any convenience store or department store. Clear plastic umbrellas are super common and cheap, around 600 yen, but be careful. If you leave them in a public umbrella stand, someone might accidentally take yours. Number 7, “Cash” While Japan is moving towards a cashless culture, there are still many places where cash is king. Therefore, it’s essential to always have some cash on hand during your trip. Fortunately, there are plenty of currency exchange locations at airports and throughout the city, making it easy to obtain Japanese yen. If you prefer using credit card cash advances, ATMs are widely available across Japan, so you don’t need to worry. For more details on how to obtain cash and some useful tips, check out my previous video. Number 8, “Coin Purse” As I mentioned in a previous video, Japan is still very much a “cash is king” country. You’ll often pay with bills, but you’ll almost always get coins back as change. For many first-time visitors, Japanese coins can be confusing, so they tend to stick with bills—and end up collecting a ton of coins. Most regular wallets just don’t have enough space for all of them, which is why having a coin case is super useful. Don’t worry if you don’t bring one—coin cases are really easy to find in Japan at places like Daiso or Don Quijote for just a few bucks. Number 9, “Credit Card” Japan is still a cash-based society, but credit cards are widely accepted in most places—especially in cities, hotels, major stores, and restaurants. You can also use them to withdraw yen from ATM if you need cash. However, not all cards are treated equally here. While Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted, some places won’t take American Express or Diners Club. So it really depends on the card. I’ve covered the differences and tips in more detail in another video, so definitely check that out before your trip to avoid surprises. Number 10, “Comfortable Shoes” Japanese cities heavily rely on railways for transportation, which means you’ll be doing a lot of walking in and around stations, using stairs, and traveling to various attractions. Also, cities like Kyoto have many hills, making comfortable shoes essential for sightseeing. While high heels might look stylish, they are impractical for efficient walking. For instance, when I lived in the car-centric U.S., I walked about 3,000 steps a day, but in Japan, even on a standard sightseeing trip, I easily walk 20,000 to 30,000 steps daily. Therefore, to keep your feet comfortable and enjoy your trip, I highly recommend bringing good walking shoes. Number 11, “Plastic Bag & Reusable Bag” In Japan, plastic bags are not free. Urban areas have supermarkets and convenience stores everywhere within walking distance. When I lived in the U.S., I needed a car to visit the supermarket about once a week, but in Japan, you might find yourself visiting these stores daily or even for every meal. Therefore, it’s practical to carry these bags with you. Additionally, foreigners often find it surprising that while Japanese cities are very clean, there are very few public trash cans. You will need to carry your trash with you until you find a place to dispose of it. To keep your bag clean, having a plastic bag is essential in Japan. Number 12, “Small Bag” Japan has an extensive public transportation system, including trains and buses, so you will likely travel by car very little during your trip. This means you’ll need to carry your belongings with you all the time. Additionally, as I explained in a previous video, Japanese trains during commuting hours can be extremely crowded. If you have a large bag, it can be not only inconvenient and bothersome to others but also might make it difficult for you to board the train. Therefore, I highly recommend carrying a smaller bag and traveling light when going out in Japan. This will make your travel experience more comfortable and hassle-free. Number 13, “Tattoo Patch” If you’re planning to enjoy Japan’s traditional culture, visiting hot springs or public baths is probably high on your list. But as I mentioned in a previous video, many of these places still have rules that don’t allow people with tattoos to enter. This goes back to the long association between tattoos and organized crime in Japan, particularly the Yakuza. That said, times are changing. More and more hot springs now allow entry if your tattoos are fully covered with a tattoo patch. So if you have any visible tattoos and want to enjoy hot springs in Japan, be sure to pack a few tattoo cover patches just in case. If you would like to request a guide in Japan or have any questions regarding your travel itinerary, please contact me from the link in the description section. 6 Items You Don’t Need to Bring As mentioned in the previous section, to make your trip to Japan more comfortable and cost-effective, you should bring only the essentials. Bringing too many items will leave less space in your bag for souvenirs and may incur extra baggage fees on flights and trains. In this section, I’ll highlight items that might be necessary in other countries but are unnecessary in Japan. By knowing what not to bring, you can travel lighter and more conveniently. Number 1, “Various Amenities” Most standard hotels in Japan provide free items like shampoo, towels, toothbrushes, hair dryers, and so on. If you have favorite personal items, feel free to bring them, but otherwise, they’re unnecessary and add extra weight. However, if you’re staying at budget hostels or Airbnbs, these amenities might not be provided, so always check in advance. Number 2, “Pajama” In most hotels in Japan, you don’t really need to bring your own pajamas. Standard hotels usually provide sleepwear, and if you’re staying at a traditional ryokan, you’ll most likely get a yukata—a casual cotton robe that’s worn like pajamas. That said, if you have a favorite set of pajamas or you’re not comfortable wearing a yukata, you might want to bring your own. Also, if you’re staying in a budget hostel or an Airbnb, sleepwear may not be provided at all, so definitely check ahead before you go. Number 3, “Water Bottle” You might be wondering if you should pack a reusable water bottle for Japan, but honestly, it’s not really necessary. Japan has vending machines and convenience stores pretty much everywhere, and drinks are really affordable compared to many other countries. Some hotels do offer water dispensers, but you won’t find them around the city very often. So unless you have a specific reason to carry one, a water bottle will likely just take up space in your bag. Number 4, “A lot of Clothes” You really don’t need to pack a ton of clothes when visiting Japan. Coin laundries are everywhere, so doing laundry during your trip is super easy. Plus, Japan has plenty of affordable clothing stores like UNIQLO and H&M, and even tourist spots often sell inexpensive and stylish clothes. A lot of travelers just buy what they need here, wear them during the trip, and then take them home as souvenirs. So unless you’re particular about your outfits, you can definitely save space in your suitcase. Number 5, “Snack” If you’re someone who likes to have snacks while traveling—on trains, in your hotel room, or just while exploring—you’ll be happy to know that Japan is a snack lover’s paradise. You don’t need to pack your own. Convenience stores and supermarkets are filled with a huge variety of snacks, from sweet to savory. One of my favorite recommendations, which I mentioned in a previous video, is the individually packed snacks from Daiso. They come in all kinds of flavors, are super cheap, and perfect for carrying around and finishing in one go. Definitely worth trying! Number 6, “Swimsuit” As I mentioned earlier, hot springs and public bathhouses in Japan are extremely popular with travelers from all over the world. But something that often surprises visitors is that you’re expected to bathe completely naked—no swimsuits allowed. So if you’re thinking of bringing a swimsuit just to use at hot springs or public bathhouses, you won’t need it. However, if you’re planning to hit the beach or visit a pool during the summer, then yes—definitely pack one. 15 Items You Must NOT Bring to Japan 6 Essential Customs Rules When entering Japan, it’s extremely important to know what items are prohibited, because carrying them can lead to confiscation—or in some cases, denial of entry. Here are six common items travelers often get wrong. Number one, meat products. Most meat items cannot be brought into Japan, whether raw or cooked. This includes popular items like sausages, bacon, or jerky. One of my friends from the U.S. tried bringing a leftover burger from the airport and had it confiscated at arrival. Number two, fruits and vegetables. Even common fruits like apples, oranges, or bananas are not allowed, because Japan wants to prevent pests and diseases from entering the country. Don’t worry though, fresh fruits are widely available in Japanese supermarkets. Number three, medications. Over-the-counter or prescription drugs from your home country may be restricted in Japan. I’ve personally bought painkillers in the U.S. but found out they weren’t approved for import. Recreational drugs, narcotics, or stimulants are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties. Always check the official Japanese government website before traveling. Number four, counterfeit luxury items. Fake designer goods are considered intellectual property violations in Japan. Bringing them in—or selling them—can lead to legal trouble. Number five, alcohol and tobacco. You can bring them, but only up to a certain limit. Exceeding the allowance can result in high taxes or confiscation. Remember, Japan has plenty of local and international options, so you can buy legally once you arrive. Number six, certain animal products. Japan follows the CITES treaty, so products made from endangered species like tiger, leopard, crocodile, or exotic reptiles are prohibited. Even possession can be a serious crime, so never bring them. Following these rules will make your arrival smooth and stress-free. 6 Airline Rules to Know When you fly to Japan, there are some everyday items you simply cannot bring on the plane at all. Not in your carry-on, not in your checked bag. But many travelers still make mistakes. Here are the most common ones. Number one, self-heating lunch boxes. In Japan, they’re sold at convenience stores and train stations. Some tourists think of them like a regular bento and try to bring one onto the plane. But because of the chemical heating pack inside, they’re always confiscated. Number two, fireworks and sparklers. Visitors often buy them during summer festivals and want to take them home as souvenirs. But even a small box of sparklers is considered an explosive, so security will never let them through. Number three, camping gas canisters and stove fuel. Outdoor travelers sometimes leave them in their backpacks after a camping trip, forgetting they’re still inside. At security, they’ll be flagged immediately. Number four, household chemicals like bleach or strong cleaners. Some people pack them if they’re staying long term in Japan, or moving there. But these liquids are treated as dangerous oxidizers, and they can’t go on any plane. Number five, fuels and oils like gasoline, kerosene, or lighter fluid. Occasionally travelers bring them for outdoor gear or lanterns, but if it can ignite, it’s automatically banned. Number six, flammable sprays and paint cans. Tourists sometimes think a can of spray paint or insect repellent is harmless, but aerosols with gas propellant are too risky in the cabin or cargo. So here’s the bottom line: these items may feel normal in daily life, but on an airplane they’re real safety risks. Leave them behind, and you’ll have a smoother, safer start to your journey in Japan. 3 Rules: Worldwide OK, NG in Japan Only Some items are allowed by the U.S. TSA or other countries’ regulations, but Japanese airlines do not permit them. Travelers are often surprised by this difference, so it’s important to know these restrictions before your trip. Number one, small fuel-based lighters, like oil lighters. TSA allows unused lighters in carry-on bags, but in Japan, any lighter containing fluid is generally prohibited from being brought onto the plane. Many travelers try to pack them, thinking it’s safe, and end up having them confiscated. Number two, matches other than safety matches, especially strike-anywhere matches. TSA and some other countries may allow one small book in carry-on, but Japanese airlines treat them as prohibited items. Tourists often assume that because other countries allow them, Japan will too, which leads to mistakes. Number three, gas-powered devices, such as portable gas irons or certain small camping appliances. TSA and other countries may allow them under strict conditions, but Japan often prohibits them entirely due to the risk of flammable gas. Travelers sometimes overlook this and try to pack them in their luggage. The rule is simple: even if TSA or other countries allow it, Japanese airlines may not. Always check airline guidelines carefully and leave these items behind to avoid trouble. Follow the rules to start your trip safely and smoothly. 10 Items Allowed but Need Caution Carry-On Only: 3 Items Some items can be carried in your hand luggage, but you cannot put them in your checked bag. Many travelers don’t realize this and try to check them in. Here are the most common examples. Number one, power banks or mobile batteries. Travelers often pack them in their suitcases, thinking it’s safer. But these batteries can catch fire if damaged in the cargo hold, which is why airlines require you to carry them in the cabin. Starting from July 2025, there are two additional rules for using mobile batteries on planes. First, do not store them in the overhead bins above your seat. Second, if you are charging your phone from the battery, or charging the battery from the plane’s power outlet, always do it in a place where you can keep an eye on it. This means your battery should be on your lap, in a seat pocket, or anywhere you can see it at all times. Following these rules helps prevent accidents and keeps everyone safe. Number two, spare lithium batteries for cameras or drones. People sometimes put them in their checked bags because they’re bulky or heavy. But they also need to stay with you in the cabin for safety reasons. Number three, electronic cigarettes, vapes, or heated tobacco devices like IQOS. Some travelers think it’s okay to check them in like regular electronics, but airlines strictly prohibit that. You can carry them with you, but you cannot use them on the plane. Keep these items in your carry-on, follow the rules, and your trip to Japan will start smoothly and safely. Checked Baggage Only: 4 Items Some items are not allowed in your carry-on, but you can put them in your checked luggage. Many travelers try to carry them with them and run into problems. Here are the most common examples. Number one, knives, scissors, and box cutters. Travelers sometimes think small or harmless-looking tools are fine in their hand luggage. But for safety reasons, they must go in your checked bag. Number two, tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, or hammers. People often pack them in their backpacks or carry-on bags because they need them for work or repairs. Airlines do not allow them in the cabin, but you can check them in safely. Number three, fishing equipment such as spears, harpoons, or sharp hooks. Some tourists think it’s just regular sports gear, but these are considered weapons in the cabin. Checking them in is the only safe option. Number four, sports equipment like baseball bats, golf clubs, or ski poles. They are too long or potentially dangerous to bring in the cabin, but they are fine in checked baggage. So the rule is simple: if an item can be sharp, heavy, or used as a weapon, don’t carry it on. Pack it in your checked luggage, and you can enjoy your trip without any unnecessary stress at the airport. 3 Rules: Japan-Only OK, NG Worldwide Some items are banned by the U.S. TSA or other countries’ regulations, but Japanese airlines allow them under certain conditions. Many travelers are surprised by this difference, so it’s important to know the details before packing. Number one, non-flammable cosmetic and personal care sprays. While many countries, including the U.S., often restrict sprays more strictly, Japan allows small containers under 0.5 liters, with a total of up to 2 liters. Travelers sometimes worry these items will be confiscated, but they’re usually fine if packed correctly. Number two, alkaline batteries. Some countries may limit the number or condition of batteries in checked luggage, but Japanese airlines generally allow them in both carry-on and checked baggage. Many travelers pack them without concern, and that’s safe in Japan. Number three, some packaged foods, such as miso paste or small seasoning packets. Other countries may treat them as liquids or gels and restrict them, but in Japan, they’re allowed in carry-on bags if properly sealed. The rule is simple: items restricted in other countries may be allowed in Japan, but conditions apply. Check airline guidelines and pack carefully. How was today’s video? Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and like button. See you in my next video, bye!

In an earlier video, I explained 25 items you can’t bring into Japan.
But Japan’s rules — and airline rules — keep changing.
And after guiding over 200 travelers, I’ve learned a lot about what people actually needed, what they never used, and what caused problems.
So for 2026, I’ve updated and expanded the list to 45 items.
In this video, I’ll cover five key points:
what you should pack, what you don’t need, and what you must never bring to Japan.
I’ll also explain the confusing items allowed by many airlines but not by Japanese airlines, and the things banned worldwide but still allowed here.
Knowing these rules matters. Prohibited items can be taken away, fined, or even lead to entry issues.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to pack for a smooth and safe trip to Japan.

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⭐️CHAPTERS⭐️
0:00 Opening
1:20 1.13 Must-Bring Items for Japan
10:55 2.6 Items You Don’t Need to Bring
14:27 3.15 Items You Must NOT Bring to Japan
14:30 3-1.6 Essential Customs Rules
16:33 3-2.6 Airline Rules to Know
18:16 3-3.3 Rules: Worldwide OK, NG in Japan Only
19:41 4.10 Items Allowed but Need Caution
19:43 4-1.Carry-On Only: 3 Items
21:10 4-2.Checked Baggage Only: 4 Items
22:23 4-3.3 Rules: Japan-Only OK, NG Worldwide

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