Traveling solo as a woman is an empowering and liberating experience, but packing efficiently can make your journey even more enjoyable. Whether you're setting off for a weekend beach escape or a month-long European adventure, smart packing is essential. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you pack light, stay organized, and travel confidently.
Please note that this page contains affiliate links. While we only recommend products that we believe in, we may benefit financially from any purchases you make.
1. Choose the Right Luggage
Opt for a lightweight carry-on suitcase or a backpack with anti-theft features. Choose something with multiple compartments to keep things organized. Hard-shell suitcases offer better protection, while soft-shell options allow for more flexibility if you tend to overpack.
2. Pack Versatile Clothing
Select clothes that can be mixed and matched easily. Neutral colors and wrinkle-resistant fabrics are your best friends. A few essentials include:
- A pair of comfortable jeans or pants
- A versatile dress that can go from day to night
- Basic tops and a lightweight sweater
- A scarf that can double as a blanket or cover-up
3. Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes help you organize outfits by day or activity, making it easy to find what you need without digging through your suitcase. They also save space and keep your luggage tidy. These light-weight compression packing cubes are perfect for suitcases, backpacks, and carry on bags.
4. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
Pack clothes that can be layered and styled differently. Stick to a limited color palette to maximize outfit combinations and reduce the need for excess items.
5. Don’t Forget Safety Essentials
Solo travel means being prepared for anything. Pack these essentials:
- A doorstop alarm and lock for hotel rooms
- A portable charger. Check out this one from Miisso. Perfect for Androids or iPhones!
- Copies of your important documents. When I flew to Mexico for a girls trip, I put a set in my checked luggage and kept another set with me in my carry on bag.
- A whistle and pepper spray (where allowed). My favorite one is this compact titanium whistle that comes with a key ring for easy portability and if it's allowed I carry my Bling It On pepper spray.
6. Limit Shoes to Three Pairs
Shoes can take up a lot of space, so limit yourself to three pairs:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Casual sandals or flats
- A dressy option for evenings
7. Toiletries: Go Miniature
Purchase travel-sized containers for your favorite products or invest in solid toiletries like shampoo bars and toothpaste tablets to save space and avoid liquid restrictions.
8. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space and minimizes wrinkles. It also allows you to see everything at a glance when you open your suitcase.
9. Pack a Personal Safety Kit
Include items like a mini first aid kit, medications, a personal alarm, and a flashlight. It’s better to have them and not need them than the other way around.
10. Keep Valuables Close
Carry a crossbody bag with anti-theft features, such as RFID protection and lockable zippers. Keep cash, cards, and your passport in a neck pouch or money belt under your clothes when exploring busy areas.
Add comment
Comments