Are you planning a road trip across the land of the rising sun? Japan is known for its lovely camping grounds, relaxing onsens, and stunning roadside scenery. However, many people find it difficult to plan their trip or even decide on what to wear in Japan. Well, we have the perfect solution to all your indecisiveness.
In this blog, we go over the ultimate packing list for everything you will ever need to have a memorable road trip across Japan. So, let’s get started!
The Ultimate Packing List For Japan
To identify everything you need to pack for Japan, you first need to find the current weather situation in the country. You also need to be aware of all basic Japanese customs and traditions if you want to have a stress-free trip. Here is a list of ten things you need to pack for your road trip across the land of cherry blossom trees:
1. Layers
Japan’s weather tends to be chilly at night, even in the summer months. Due to this, it is always a smart move to pack in some extra layers. If you are unsure about what to wear in Japan without looking like you are in the middle of a blizzard, here are a few tips for layering the right way:
- Get thermal tights and shirts to wear underneath your clothes.
- Opt for casual wear that does not make you look bulky around the stomach area.
- Don’t forget your gloves, socks, cap, and jacket.
- You can also take some inspiration from other people’s streetwear.
2. Waterproof Jacket
In Japan, regular rain is a part of everyday life. Therefore, you always need to be prepared with a waterproof jacket. If you do not wish to buy an entirely new jacket, you can also buy a disposable raincoat from any convenience store in Japan to protect your clothes from the elements.
3. Folding Umbrella
In the same vein as the waterproof jacket, you should also invest in a compact and foldable umbrella. These are a great investment in keeping your belongings dry from sudden bouts of rain.
4. Flip Flops
Flip flops are especially convenient on a road trip where you may need to make regular stops at onsens and spas for a relaxing bath and to use the restroom. Therefore, remember to pack these with your regular pair of shoes.
5. Scarves, Hat, and Gloves
Scarves and gloves may protect you from the chilliness of the night, but you also need a hat to keep the heat off of your head in the daytime. Since the weather is extremely bipolar in Japan, the days tend to get quite hot, especially in the summer. In such conditions, you need a handy hat to protect your noggin’ from the hot sun rays while also adding some much-needed pizazz to your regular outfit.
6. Waterproof Toiletry and Makeup Bags
It is a no-brainer that your makeup and toiletry bag should be waterproof, as you will need to constantly use the essentials in these bags when you stop at a spa or hot spring. If you are wondering what you need to pack in these bags for your road trip across Japan, here is a simple breakdown:
- Keep your makeup essentials like a BB cream, blush kit, sunscreen, concealer, highlighter, mascara, liner, setting spray, and lipstick in the waterproof makeup bag. You can also add in a pair of eyelashes or other makeup items if needed.
- In your toiletries bag, keep your shampoo, conditioner, body soap, moisturizer, head towel, body towel, and a change of clothes.
7. Lightweight Backpack
Even though you will be taking your road trip by campervan, there are many places where you will need to do a lot of walking to explore. Therefore, it is important that you also have a lightweight backpack on hand, which you can use to fill all your essentials.
8. Reusable Shopping Bags
Remember to keep some reusable shopping bags for all your trash, dirty laundry, and other things. Try to be eco-conscious throughout your trip and avoid using plastic bags.
9. Portable Chargers
It is always a smart idea to have a portable charger at hand, as some places in Japan can be quite remote. If you end up stranded in such a location, you always need to make sure your phone is fully charged and capable of connecting you to the nearest police station or towing company.
10. Valid ID, Visa, and Passport
Always keep your ID, visa, and passport on hand throughout your road trip. This will make it easier for police personnel to identify you and keep you safe from unnecessary detention. The laws in Japan tend to be quite strict on foreigners, so you need a valid visa of up to 90 days to ensure a smooth travel experience.
To Wrap Up
A road trip across Japan is truly a remarkable journey, one that everyone should experience at least once in their lives. We have compiled the ultimate packing list where you can get expert advice on what to pack and what to wear in Japan for your road trip. If you are looking for a campervan, you should consider renting from Samurai Campers, the most affordable and reliable campervan rental in Japan!
