Packing for Solo Travel: Less Stress, More Freedom
Packing for solo travel is about finding the balance between being prepared for anything and not overpacking. Whether you’re off on a backpacking adventure, a city escape, or the Camino de Santiago, having the right gear makes all the difference.
When I first started travelling full-time, I was convinced I could live out of a carry-on backpack. I packed light, thinking I had cracked the code for minimalist travel… but reality hit fast. Carry-on limits were restrictive, and constantly lugging everything on my back quickly lost its appeal.
So, I made the switch and bought a lovely Samsonite suitcase, and honestly, it was a game-changer. Now, I check in my bag for flights, pack everything properly, and then happily wheel it to my hotel or Airbnb without breaking my back. No regrets.
This packing list will help you travel light, stay safe, and be ready for whatever the road throws your way – without making the same mistakes I did.
1. Travel Documents & Essentials
Some things are not replaceable. Keep these in a secure, easy-to-reach place.
- Passport & copies (digital + paper backups)
- Travel insurance details (an absolute must for solo travellers!)
- Visa documents (if needed)
- Emergency contacts (keep them written down in case your phone dies)
- A secure travel wallet (RFID-blocking to prevent card skimming)
- A small notebook & pen (useful for border forms, journaling, or making quick notes in a new language)
Pro Tip: Always keep your important documents in a waterproof pouch in case of rain, spills, or unexpected mishaps.
2. The Best Backpack & Packing Accessories
Your bag is your home on the road, so choosing the right one is crucial.
- Backpack or suitcase? Backpacks are better for mobility, but a suitcase works well if you’re staying in hotels or Airbnbs
- A theft-proof daypack (small, lockable, with hidden compartments)
- Packing cubes (absolute game-changer for keeping things organised!)
- Dry bag for wet clothes & electronics
- A foldable tote bag (for shopping or day trips)
Pro Tip: A compression sack is great for bulky items like jackets—it saves space and doubles as a pillow.
3. Clothing: Pack Light, Stay Versatile
The golden rule? Layers and mix-and-match outfits.
- 2-3 breathable tops (quick-dry, wrinkle-resistant)
- 1-2 comfy bottoms (leggings, travel trousers, or shorts)
- 1 lightweight dress or jumpsuit
- 1 warm layer (fleece, jumper, or packable jacket)
- Underwear (7 pairs) & quick-dry socks
- Comfortable walking shoes & sandals
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- A scarf or sarong (doubles as a blanket, beach cover-up, or extra layer)
Pro Tip: Choose neutral colours so you can mix & match easily.
4. Toiletries & Minimalist Beauty Kit
When packing toiletries, solid products > liquids to avoid leaks & hand-luggage restrictions.
- A door stop alarm (perfect for Airbnb & hostel safety!)
- A personal safety alarm or whistle
- A discreet money belt or hidden pouch
- A lock for hostel lockers
- Pepper spray or alternative (if legal in your destination)
Pro Tip: Download offline maps & translation apps before your trip.
5. Safety & Security Essentials for Solo Female Travellers
When travelling alone, safety is just as important as packing light. These items offer peace of mind without taking up much space.
- A door stop alarm (perfect for Airbnb & hostel safety!)
- A personal safety alarm or whistle
- A discreet money belt or hidden pouch
- A lock for hostel lockers
- Pepper spray or alternative (if legal in your destination)
Pro Tip: Always scan your passport, insurance & emergency contacts and save them in Google Drive or email for easy access.
6. Travel Gadgets & Must-Have Tech
Technology can make or break your travel experience. Here’s what you’ll actually use.
- Universal travel adapter
- Power bank (10,000mAh+)
- E-reader or Kindle (lighter than books!)
- Noise-cancelling earbuds
- Smartphone tripod (for solo travel photos!)
- Local SIM card or eSIM (for data on the go)
Pro Tip: Download offline maps & translation apps before your trip.
7. Health & First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is a lifesaver when you’re on your own.
- Painkillers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, etc.)
- Electrolyte sachets (for dehydration & long travel days)
- Motion sickness tablets
- Antiseptic wipes & plasters
- Hand sanitiser & tissues
Pro Tip: Pack a small bag of herbal tea – it’s a comfort item that helps with digestion, colds, and stress.
Final Packing Tips for Solo Travellers
- Roll, don’t fold your clothes to save space.
- Wear bulky items (like a jacket) on the plane to free up bag space.
- Pack for one week – even if travelling for months.
- Leave room for souvenirs or unexpected finds!
FAQ: Solo Female Travel Packing List
1. What should a solo female traveller pack?
A solo female traveller should pack lightweight, versatile clothing, a secure backpack or suitcase, safety essentials (like a door stop alarm and personal safety alarm), and travel gadgets like a power bank and universal adapter. Travel insurance is also a must!
2. Is a backpack or suitcase better for solo travel?
It depends on your travel style! Backpacks are great for mobility, especially if you’re hopping between hostels or taking public transport. Suitcases (like my Samsonite) are ideal if you prefer easy packing and rolling your luggage to your hotel or Airbnb.
3. How do I pack light for a long trip?
The best way to pack light is to bring clothing that mixes and matches easily, choose travel-sized toiletries, and roll your clothes instead of folding them. Packing cubes also help with organisation and space-saving.
4. What safety items should I bring as a solo female traveller?
Some must-have safety essentials include a door stop alarm, a personal safety alarm, a money belt, and a small travel lock for hostel lockers. It’s also a good idea to scan and save copies of important documents in the cloud.
5. What is one item solo female travellers always forget?
A microfibre towel! It’s lightweight, dries quickly, and is handy for hostels, beaches, or even as a blanket on long journeys. Another common item people forget is a universal travel adapter – essential for keeping devices charged worldwide.
Final Thoughts: What’s in YOUR Bag?
Packing for solo travel is all about balance: being prepared but not overburdened. The key is choosing quality over quantity and only bringing what you’ll actually use.
What’s your #1 must-pack item for travel? Drop it in the comments!
Before You Go…
If you’re planning your own solo trip my Solo Travel Lifeline might come in handy. It’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket – without the awkward small talk.
Need a ready-made plan? Check out my 3-day travel itineraries for popular destinations – they’re packed with tips and can save you a lot of guesswork. If you want something more personalised, I also offer custom itinerary planning to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
Need a place to stay? I’ve got some handy affiliate links for Booking.com and Expedia to make planning a bit easier. If you book through them, I may earn a small commision – at no extra cost to you – so you’d be helping a fellow traveller out.
And if you want real time action, follow me on Instagram, TikToK or join the Sisterhood of Solo Travellers on Facebook for tips, stories, and the occasional travel mishap.
If you’re interested in Southeast Asia, you might enjoy my posts about Koh Lanta and Siem Reap.
Planning a solo trip? It can feel overwhelming at first, but I’ve got a guide to help – Why I Use Booking.com.
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