Travel Tips

The Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without (After 20 Years of Solo Adventures)

&NewLine;<p class&equals;"is-style-info"><em>This post may contain affiliate links&comma; which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links&comma; at no extra cost to you&period; Please read&nbsp&semi;<a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;affiliate-third-party-links-disclosure-and-disclaimer&sol;">full disclosure<&sol;a>&nbsp&semi;for more information&period;<&sol;em><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p>After 20 years of solo travel&comma; I’ve learned a few things&colon; you don’t need nearly as much stuff as you think&comma; safety and comfort are priceless&comma; and the right gear makes all the difference&period; Over the years&comma; I’ve fine-tuned my packing list down to the items I absolutely can’t live without—things that keep me light&comma; safe&comma; and ready for whatever adventure comes my way&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p>If you’re a solo female traveler &lpar;or aspiring to be one&rpar;&comma; consider this your shortcut to a streamlined&comma; stress-free&comma; and safer packing experience&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-image size-full has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nRhe0S"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-clothing-15&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12528"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nRhe0S">Modest Dress<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gIBX4F"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-clothing-11&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12524" style&equals;"width&colon;186px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gIBX4F">Merino Wool<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-image size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46KqZXX"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-clothing-14-628x1024&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12527" style&equals;"width&colon;241px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46KqZXX">Quick Dry Underwear<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<h3 class&equals;"wp-block-heading">Clothing Must-Haves<&sol;h3>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Merino Wool Basics<&sol;strong><br>If I could only pack one fabric&comma; it would be <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gIBX4F">merino wool<&sol;a>&period; It’s quick-drying&comma; moisture-wicking&comma; odor-resistant&comma; and works in both hot and cool climates&period; Plus&comma; it’s soft and wrinkle-resistant&comma; which makes it ideal for travel&period; I stick to neutral colors so I can mix and match easily—basically&comma; an instant capsule wardrobe&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Quick-Dry Undies<&sol;strong><br>Let’s be honest—no one wants to pack 47 pairs of underwear &OpenCurlyDoubleQuote;just in case&period;” A few pairs of ExOfficio <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46KqZXX">quick-dry undies<&sol;a> and a couple of travel-sized <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gJIagO">Tide packets<&sol;a> mean I can do sink laundry as I go&period; It&&num;8217&semi;s a lightweight&comma; practical solution that saves tons of space&period; Their bras are great too&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>A Versatile Dress &plus; Shawl<&sol;strong><br>When you’re traveling light&comma; planning your wardrobe strategically makes life so much easier&period; I always pack one <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nRhe0S">church appropriate dress<&sol;a> &lpar;knee-and-shoulder covering&rpar; and a lightweight shawl for places of worship or more conservative settings&period; And when planning my itinerary&comma; I tend to stack places like churches and temples that require a more conservative attire on the same itinerary day&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class&equals;"wp-block-embed&lowbar;&lowbar;wrapper">&NewLine;<amp-youtube data-videoid&equals;"NgUQz4ISCkQ" layout&equals;"responsive" width&equals;"1000" height&equals;"563"><&sol;amp-youtube>&NewLine;<&sol;div><&sol;figure>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46YijOM"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-clothing-12-1024x1019&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12525" style&equals;"width&colon;239px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46YijOM">International Adapter<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46DwuaD"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-tech-27-1000x1024&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12540" style&equals;"width&colon;176px&semi;height&colon;234px"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46DwuaD">Kindle<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gJn6qt"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-tech-26-569x1024&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12539" style&equals;"width&colon;132px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gJn6qt">Beats Noise Cancelling Headphones<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<h3 class&equals;"wp-block-heading">Tech That Keeps Me Connected &amp&semi; Sane<&sol;h3>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>International Adapter<&sol;strong><br>This <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46YijOM">adapter<&sol;a> with USB and USB-C ports covers me in multiple countries—no more juggling a bag of random plugs&period; It lives in my personal item so I never go on a trip without it&excl;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Kindle<&sol;strong><br>I have the smallest&comma; lightest-weight <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46DwuaD">Kindle<&sol;a>&comma; which is perfect for those long flights or solo dinners&period; Don&&num;8217&semi;t get me wrong&comma; I adore physical books&comma; but for cutting down on weight when traveling&comma; this wins&comma; hands down&excl;<br><br><strong>Noise-Cancelling Headphones<&sol;strong><br>From flights&comma; trains&comma; or even noisy hotel rooms—<a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gJn6qt">Beats noise-canceling headphones<&sol;a> have saved my sanity on a number of occasions&excl; <br><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nhC89u"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-tech-28-1024x1024&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12541" style&equals;"width&colon;201px&semi;height&colon;252px"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nhC89u">Multi Plug Cable<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46GYkCS"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-tech-25&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12537" style&equals;"width&colon;198px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46GYkCS">Powerbank<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;airalo&period;tpx&period;li&sol;3zj5JODx"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;airalo-logo&period;png" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12543"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;airalo&period;tpx&period;li&sol;3zj5JODx">Airalo ESIM<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Multi-Charging Cable<&sol;strong><br>Instead of five different cables&comma; I pack two of these three-in-one <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nhC89u">multi cables<&sol;a>&period; They work for all my devices and save space in my bag&excl;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Portable Charger<&sol;strong><br>For long days when I’m relying on my phone for maps&comma; translations&comma; and photos&comma; a <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46GYkCS">portable charger<&sol;a> is a must&period; Staying charged is not only convenient—it’s also a safety essential&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Airalo eSIM<&sol;strong><br>An <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;www&period;airalo&period;com&sol;">Airalo eSIM<&sol;a> is my secret weapon for affordable data abroad&period; Buy and set it up in advance&comma; and you’ll be connected when you land&period;<br><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-image size-large has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gcGRXs"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-safety-24-1024x741&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12536"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gcGRXs">Hairbrush Safe<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;41IuEDT"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-safety-22-1024x1001&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12534" style&equals;"width&colon;177px&semi;height&colon;247px"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;41IuEDT">Door Lock<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nQVsdt"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-safety-23&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12535" style&equals;"width&colon;212px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nQVsdt">Wedding Ring<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<h3 class&equals;"wp-block-heading">Safety Essentials Every Solo Traveler Should Pack<&sol;h3>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Brush Safe<&sol;strong><br>A hidden safe inside a <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gcGRXs">hairbrush<&sol;a>&quest; Genius&excl; I discovered this years ago when traveling in Cuba &lpar;where cash was king and US ATM and credit cards don&&num;8217&semi;t work&rpar;&comma; and I’ve used it ever since&period; Bonus&colon; it actually works as a brush too&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Portable Door Lock<&sol;strong><br>Not every accommodation feels secure&comma; and this <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;41IuEDT">door lock<&sol;a> is perfect for extra peace of mind when staying solo&period;<br><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Wedding Band &lpar;Real or Fake&rpar;<&sol;strong><br>In some countries&comma; wearing a ring can help cut down on unwanted attention&period; I started doing this after a trip to Vietnam&comma; when everyone I met was trying to introduce me to their marrying-age son&period; These days&comma; I just move my Oura ring onto my wedding finger&comma; but a <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4nQVsdt">simple band<&sol;a> does the trick as well&period; Just don&&num;8217&semi;t choose anything overly flashy that could draw unwanted attention in other ways&excl;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gINLUk"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-other-20&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12532"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gINLUk">Carry On<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4mDH0Vp"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-other-19-1024x931&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12531"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4mDH0Vp">Personal Item<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-full has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46qFaCv"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-other-17&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12529"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46qFaCv">Foldable Bags<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<h3 class&equals;"wp-block-heading">Other Essentials That Make Life Easier<&sol;h3>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Luggage Setup<&sol;strong><br>I travel with a two-bag combo&colon; a <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4mDH0Vp">compact under-seat personal item<&sol;a> &lpar;perfect for European budget airlines&rpar; and a larger <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gINLUk">42L Cotopaxi pack<&sol;a> for my carry on bag&period; Together&comma; they cover all my needs&comma; and I don&&num;8217&semi;t have to drag a roller bag through the cobblestone streets of Europe&excl;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Foldable Tote Bags<&sol;strong><br>Many countries charge for plastic bags now&comma; and these little <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;46qFaCv">foldable totes<&sol;a> come in clutch for groceries&comma; market finds&comma; or just random overflow&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>Filtered Water Bottle<&sol;strong><br>Hydration is non-negotiable&period; I love a <a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gEbvZO">water bottle with a built-in filter<&sol;a>—it’s saved me from buying endless plastic bottles&comma; and I&&num;8217&semi;ve used it everywhere from Europe to Africa&period; Just be cautious opening it mid-flight… cabin pressure can turn it into a volcano&period;<br><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"><div class&equals;"wp-block-image">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"aligncenter size-large is-resized has-lightbox"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gEbvZO"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-other-18-485x1024&period;jpg" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12530" style&equals;"width&colon;155px&semi;height&colon;auto"&sol;><&sol;a><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4mDH0Vp">Filtered Water <&sol;a><a href&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;amzn&period;to&sol;4gEbvZO">Bottle<&sol;a><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<p class&equals;"has-text-align-center"><&sol;p>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<h3 class&equals;"wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts<&sol;h3>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p>Traveling solo as a woman can feel daunting at first&comma; but having the right gear makes it so much easier—and safer&period; After two decades of trial and error&comma; these are the items I always pack and recommend to other women setting off on their own adventures&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p>The goal isn’t to pack more—it’s to pack smarter&period; Lighten your load&comma; stay connected&comma; keep yourself safe&comma; and make space for the memories you’re about to create&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p>Because at the end of the day&comma; travel isn’t about stuff—it’s about the freedom you feel when you step out into a new city&comma; completely on your own&comma; ready to explore&period;<&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><strong>If you like it&comma; put a pin on it&excl;<&sol;strong><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-image size-full"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-02&period;png" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12552"&sol;><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<div class&equals;"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">&NewLine;<figure class&equals;"wp-block-image size-large"><img onerror&equals;"this&period;onerror&equals;null&semi;this&period;src&equals;'https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;08&sol;image-not-found&period;png'" src&equals;"https&colon;&sol;&sol;mostlysolotravel&period;com&sol;wp-content&sol;uploads&sol;2025&sol;09&sol;packing-list-01-683x1024&period;png" alt&equals;"" class&equals;"wp-image-12551"&sol;><&sol;figure>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;<&sol;div>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><&sol;p>&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;&NewLine;<p><&sol;p>&NewLine;

Lori Barbely

Hi, I’m Lori, the Chief Travel Officer for Mostly Solo Travel! I created this site for solo (and would-be solo) female travelers. My goal is to inspire your trips, give you practical advice on how to plan, and to ease your fears so you can explore the world on your own.

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