Solo Travel for Women: Your Ultimate Packing Guide for a Solo Trip

Deciding on a single outfit was never easy, how can you pack for a solo trip without any mistake? Leaving your home for days with just one of two bags can constantly make you feel like something is missing and it might cause inconvenience. Finally, you gathered the courage to start your long-awaited journey, but things are messy and stressful. If these thoughts are worrying you then you landed at the best spot. We have combined the best of advice and tips to make your packing smooth and error-free on the first attempt. Here is the ultimate guide to help you pack like a pro traveller and avoid a lot of trouble when you travel solo.

If we go into the “Not to Do” list, it will be a waste of time. So, let us focus on what you exactly need to save yourself from any worries during your trip. This list includes everything you can probably require for every destination in any weather. But it is important to customize your packing list to match the length and location of your stay. You freely choose and prioritize items as per your needs without missing a thing, let’s start!

1.Find the Perfect Bag

Before you start picking up items, it is crucial to choose the right type of bag to pack your stuff. A backpack is always preferred by experienced travellers, female or male, given its various advantages.

1. Choose a bag that evenly distributes weight without making you uncomfortable even after carrying it for long.
2. It should be large enough to fit in everything you need with some extra space but not too big.
3. The material should be durable and water-resistant (even better).
4. Bring an anti-theft backpack or add zipper locks.

Additionally, carry a comparatively smaller backpack, if needed, to pack devices like your laptop, camera, etc. You can wear it at the front.

This will save you from waiting at airports, keeping your luggage away from yourself, and of course dragging your wheel suitcase on a rough track.

2.Technical/Electronic Stuff

1. A flashlight in addition to your phone
2. A camera along with a strong case or small bag
3. Charger, batteries, and a power bank
4. Music player (if not carrying your phone on a challenging hike)

3.Clothing List

The most stressful part is packing clothes when you seem confused about everything. But let’s be practical and minimalist for the sake of a comfortable solo trip. Again, the list is categorized as per the weather. You can shortlist everything you NEED to match your plan.

a.For Hot Climates

• Light and comfortable t-shirts and tank tops in neutral shades
• 3-4 pairs of bottom wear (shorts, pants, leggings) made of cotton or other light material
• 1-2 pairs of comfortable sleepwear
• 1-2 casual light dresses
• Enough undergarments, ideally, 7 panties, 2 sports bras, and 2 other comfortable bras
• A scarf to cover yourself if needed
• A hat protecting your face from shade along with sunglasses
• 1 pair of sports shoes with a pair of normal socks
• 1 pair of sandals or slippers with 2 pairs of thin socks

b.For Cold Climates

• At least 2 thermal wear to stay warm
• 4 full sleeved shirts and 2 sweaters
• 1-2 pairs of jeans (thick enough to stand the cold)
• 2-3 pairs of thin and warm leggings
• 1-2 pairs of comfortable sleepwear
• Ideally, 7 panties, 2 sports bras, and 3 other comfortable bras (not less)
• 5-6 pairs of winter socks
• 1 pair of boots (snow-boots for snowy areas)
• 1 pair of sports shoes
• 1 heavy jacket or coat
• 2 pairs of gloves
• 1 muffler (woollen scarf) and 1 warm cap

c.For Temperate Climates

• 3-4 t-shirts and sleeveless tops
• 2-3 long-sleeved shirts in darker shades
• 3-4 pairs of leggings and shorts as per your preference
• 1-2 pairs of jeans
• Ideally, 7 panties, 2 sports bras, and 3 other comfortable bras (not less)
• 1-2 pairs of comfortable sleepwear
• 1 pair of boots and 2 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of sports shoes and 2 pairs of socks (easily dryable)
• A waterproof light jumper

If your destination is a place full of shops with cheap clothes and easy access to markets you can surely skip a few things. But you must be careful about all your needs while travelling to remote or rural areas.

4.Toiletries and Other Items

Undoubtedly, women need to be more careful about carrying personal hygiene products with them. Some common amenities (shampoo, soap, sanitary pads) can be bought from the local market but still look through this list to stay on the safe side:

• A disinfecting soap (bottle preferred)
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturizer, sunscreen, and deodorant
• Toothpaste and toothbrush (floss, if required)
• Hairband, clips, hair ties (whatever you use)
• Sanitary pads, panty liners, tampons, and menstrual cups (must carry a cup as it is reusable)
• Cotton (for numerous purposes)
• Towels (big and small), tissue paper or handkerchief
• Essential skincare or makeup- cleanser, lip balm, eyeliner, etc.

And we are done! Read the lists, pack your stuff, and do a rerun to be sure. Have a happy travelling experience.