Imagine dragging a 25kg suitcase up three flights of stairs in a Parisian apartment building, sweat dripping down your back, only to realize you’ve packed ten outfits you’ll never wear.
Now, imagine strolling into that same apartment with just a carry-on, dropping your bag, and immediately heading out to find the local bakery because you’re not burdened by stuff. This is the fundamental difference between packing for a vacation and packing for a house sit, and it’s the secret that separates rookie sitters from seasoned pros.
After you’ve figured out how to get started in house sitting, the next practical hurdle is the pack. The biggest mistake we see people make is treating a one-week sit like a one-week all-inclusive resort stay. It’s not. You’re stepping into a fully functional home, and that changes everything.
The Game-Changing Realization: You Have a Washing Machine
The most liberating thought you can have while packing is this: I can do laundry. This simple fact cuts your required clothing in half, if not more. We learned this the hard way after our first few sits, hauling around clothes we never touched. Now, we live by a new rule.
For a week-long sit, you don’t need a week's worth of clothes. You need three or four days' worth. A few shirts, a couple of pairs of pants or shorts, underwear, and a jumper is plenty for me (Konrad). Caro follows the same logic: a handful of tops, a dress, a skirt, and the essentials. Because you can always run a load of wash, you can operate on a simple rotation, feeling fresh without the weight of a massive wardrobe.
Think of it like you're going to stay at your parents' house for a week. You pack comfortably and lightly because you know you have all the amenities of home. This mindset is what makes the lifestyle sustainable and one of the key benefits of house sitting.
Your Essential Packing List (And What to Leave Behind)
Once you’ve found the perfect assignment on House Sitting Sites like Trusted House Sitters, it’s time to get strategic. Here’s how we break it down.
The Essentials You Should Pack
A 3-4 Day Clothing Rotation: As mentioned above. For longer sits that cross seasons, we just add a few versatile layers: a rain jacket, a warm fleece, and maybe swimwear. We’ve met so many travelers who confess they wear the same few favorite outfits over and over, while the rest of their giant bag is just dead weight.
One 'Respectable' Outfit: You never know when a friendly neighbor might pop over or you get invited for a coffee. I always pack one pair of nice jeans, a button-down shirt, and clean leather shoes.
It’s not about being overly formal; it’s about feeling put-together and comfortable in an unexpected social situation. A crucial note: some homeowners have a strict 'no guests' policy. Always, always check with them before inviting anyone over.Minimalist Toiletries: You have a private bathroom. Bring your non-negotiables: toothbrush, toothpaste, your specific face wash or shampoo, makeup, and any feminine hygiene products. There’s no need to haul giant bottles; decant them into smaller, travel-sized containers.
Medications & Prescriptions: For international sits, this is critical. Get your doctor to provide extra prescription papers and, if possible, a translation of your medication's generic name into the local language. It can save you a world of hassle.
What NOT to Pack (And One Thing You Absolutely Should)
Don't Pack Pet Food or Toys: We’ve found that most pets are on specific diets or have their favorite toys. The owner will have everything prepared. Interfering with their routine can cause more harm than good.
Don't Pack Bulky Kitchen Gadgets: We love to cook, but as long as a kitchen has salt, pepper, and oil, we can make almost anything work. Owners are almost always happy for you to use their pantry staples.
We usually do a small grocery shop on our first day for things like pasta or fresh produce. Right now, we’re in Tuscany snacking on fresh olives the homeowners bought for us as a welcome gift. You can't beat that.DO Pack a Small Gift: This is our secret weapon for breaking the ice. A bottle of nice wine or a small treat from your hometown costs very little but goes a long way. It shows appreciation and starts the entire house sitting job on a foundation of goodwill. Homeowners never expect it, and they are always deeply grateful.
The Freedom of Packing Light
Ultimately, knowing what should I pack for my house sit is less about a specific checklist and more about a shift in mindset. You are not a tourist living out of a suitcase; you are a temporary resident, a custodian of a home.
Packing light gives you the flexibility and freedom that this lifestyle is all about. It allows you to feel less like a visitor and more like a local, a feeling we fell in love with after our very first sit.
Embrace the minimalism. It will make your travels easier, your stays more comfortable, and your entire experience more enjoyable.
Good luck, and if you have any questions, you can always find us on Instagram.
Konrad and Caro
DM us @housesittersguide and we'll answer!
Do I need to bring my own towels and bedding to a house sit?
Almost never. The home is fully equipped. Towels, bedding, and kitchen essentials are provided. Pack as if you're staying at a friend's house, not a hostel.
Should I pack food for my first few days?
We recommend buying groceries upon arrival. It helps you settle in and get a feel for the local area. Most homeowners leave staples like salt, pepper, and oil, and some even leave a welcome snack.
What's one unexpected item that's always useful to pack?
A universal power adapter. Even for domestic sits, you never know if you'll need an extra outlet, and for international travel, it's non-negotiable.
How much luggage is too much for a house sit?
If you can't comfortably carry it all yourself in one go, you've likely packed too much. A carry-on and a personal bag are ideal for sits up to a few weeks. Remember, you'll have a washing machine.
Is it a good idea to bring a gift for the homeowner?
Absolutely. It’s not required, but it’s a wonderful gesture. A bottle of wine or a small local treat from your hometown is a perfect way to start the sit on a positive note.
