My Essential Packing List for Solo Travel

What to pack for solo travel? From best luggage to safety gadgets for female travelers and solo travel gear…this solo trip packing list accompanies me on all my adventures and are essentials for a safe and fun trip.

This list contains affiliate links. If you click on an item and purchase it through Amazon I’ll get a small commission! These small commissions help keep me on the road, blogging and making more videos! I’m grateful for your GRRR support .

Best Luggage & Packing Solutions

eagle creek doubleback luggage, eagle creek doubleback 22, eadgle creek switchback 22

Eagle Creek Doubleback22 3-in-1 Carry-on Luggage

Love this carryon backpack convertible. Unfortunately, they discontinued it. The Eagle Creek Expanse 21″ is its replacement along with the Load Warrior 22.  Read my review. Helps me downsize my packing. Highly recommended.

best Wheeled Backpacks
Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack Wheeled Backpack

Hynes Eagle 42L Wheeled Backpack

Carry-On compliant convertible wheeled backpack with a laptop sleeve and business organizer section. Comes with wheel covers to protect wheels when in transit. Read more in Best Wheeled Backpacks for Solo Travel

northface terra 45, best backpack for travel 

North Face Terra 45 Backpack 

Best bag for young backpackers. Several easy-access pockets to store things in the front, top and sides. Ergonomic: its back + hip support is ideal.

packing cubes, eagle creek packing cubes
Eagle Creek Packing Cubes (3pk)

While i’ll always love my Super Saver bags, but I’ve fallen for packing cubes.  They make organizing easy.

travelon mesh pouches

TravelOn Mesh Pouches (3pk)

I carry a lot of chargers, batteries and cables, so I need pouches to organize ’em.  See-through mesh pouches are great.  

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SpaceSaver Premium Storage bags (2Sm,2M, 2L)

Space Saver bags are the air tight solution to packing and size reduction.  I use medium to small sizes and medium to large for bulky winter clothes.

Related Posts

Health & Safety Gear for Female Travelers

What to pack for female solo travel for feminine health and safety?

movon Money Belt RFID-blocking Hidden Wallet
Movon Money Belt RFID-blocking

I don’t like wearing money belts but I always take one to store important travel docs.

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The Clever Travel Companion

10%off if you buy from my link in 30 days. I have Clever Travel Companion tank top and underwear.  My fave -the tank top has a hidden pocket to store belongings. It operates a bit like a fanny pack. My review.

clever travel companion underwear review
Clever Travel Companion Underwear

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The Clever Travel Companion

10%off if you buy from my link in 30 days. I have Clever Travel Companion tank top and underwear.  My fave -the tank top has a hidden pocket to store belongings. It operates a bit like a fanny pack. My review.

sprigs-banjees-wrist-wallets

Banjees Wrist Wallets

You’ll see me wearing these in my videos. Stash my money and credit cards on my wrist for quick access to them. My fave is this 2-pocket reversible design. Review here.

 Read 21 Ways to Outsmart Pickpockets

fitbit charge 2FitBit Charge 3

 FitBit Charge 3 is a swim-proof watch fitness band & tracks everything from steps, heart rate, calories and sleeping patterns (it records REM, light & deep cycles). It vibrates to let me know when it’s time to start moving!

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Guard Dog Security Doorstop

I take a backup doorstop with me in the case I feel like my hotel is shady and I want to sleep with peace of mind. Haven’t had to use it much thankfully. I have a simple doorstop; this is for the traveler who wants extra security.

Read Tips for Staying in Hotels

kn95 color assorted masksKN95 Protective Face Cover Mask, Multi Color

KN95 face masks are the best protection from COVID. The shape allows for more comfortable breathability and airflow.

ir?t=gt0d8 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=B08ZH93789ir?t=gt0d8 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=B01AVKC3K8japanese face masksReusable Pitta Face Mask

Made in Japan, this is one of my favorite hypoallergenic face masks. It is comfortable but secure and breathable. The masks allow you to breathe while working out and help prevent dust or allergen inhalation. This is not proven to protect you against COVID.

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Solo Travel Gear for Outdoor/Adventure

What to Pack for Solo Travel for Outdoor Adventures & Developing Countries

sea to summit silk liner, travel sheet, silk liner, travel liner, sleeping bag, travel resources, camping tips

Sea to Summit Silk Linerir?source=bk&t=grrrltraveler 20&bm id=default&l=ktl&linkId=62f2eecd05f857a67e931b116f0b48ff& cb=1485417795957

A silk liner is the best travel sheet. It’s lightweight, but keeps you warm & protected from bedbugs. One liner has lasted me over 10 years+.  Highly recommended.

flip & tumble bag

Flip and Tumble Bag

Possibly the best self-eating, flexy, reusable bags I’ve gotten! The fabric is flexible (not cheap). Perfect for toiletries and tucking in your daypack for emergencies.

the freshette, female urinary device, pee standing up, travel gear, camping gear for women

Freshetteir?source=bk&t=grrrltraveler 20&bm id=default&l=ktl&linkId=3d5ee3a44f873c071739dabd2cae5aba& cb=1469933576206

Never used a squat toilet but fear accidentally peeing on yourself? A female urinary device is “training wheels”.   My review here.

If you feel my work delivers valuable information and you’d like to contribute:  Help Keep Me on the Road

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Travel doctor recommended, it is a super strong (and toxic) insect and bed bug repellant you spray onto your bag and clothes and let set. It’s meant to treat items before you take them on the road.

solumel, meleleuca

Melaleuca solumel

I always bring a small bottle of undiluted Solumel to spritz on my hotel bed. Melaleuca is Tea Tree Oil, a powerful natural anti-bacterial. It’s a cleaner, disinfectant and deodorizer. Read my post on bed bug prevention..

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ir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li2&o=1&a=B001ANQVYUMurphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Balm | Plant Based | DEET Free | Travel/Pocket Size | 0.75 oz

steripen freedom, steripen freedom solar bundle, water purifier

SteriPEN Freedom Solar Bundle

SteriPEN is recommended for water purification in countries with unsafe water. It has a built-in flashlight, discharges a 40 second UV light to purify contaminated water and more.  Read my review.

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TravelOn Waterproof Pouch

Protects mobile devices from the elements. Submerge it 65ft or 20M deep. Con: Submerged in water, mobile touch capabilities can feel wonky. I use it as a beach buddy pouch.

manduka super light yoga mat
  Manduka EXO Lite travel yoga mat

Manduka is a great no-slip yoga mats. Lighter than its standard weight, you can pack this in your luggage to take it on the go!

lifestraw water purification, lifestraw water filtration
Lifestraw Water Purfier

I’ve seen videos where people tested the Lifestraw water purification/ filtration device by drinking their vomit and pee. That’s extreme but you get the point. This can handle the hardcore.

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Sun Bum Reef-Safe Face Stick (I pack this in my daily bag)

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Bare Republic 50SPF sunscreen facial stickir?source=bk&t=grrrltraveler 20&bm id=default&l=ktl&linkId=4b08f734955a1d666005a108dd7580dc& cb=1504243899550

I have freckles which grow into sunspots; I always pack a facial sunscreen stick. Bare Republic is all natural, eco-friendly & coral safe. The zinc protection is a bit thick; so I rub it in.

DevaCurl No-Poo Quick Cleanser (1.5 oz).

Dry shampoo is a brilliant invention. When there’s no water to wash your hair.

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Now Lemongrass Oil 

The citrus scent of lemongrass gives me a zing, it refreshes the air, doubles as a light perfume  and it repels mosquitoes.  It’s also an antiseptic. Always carry it in my daypack.

Faceshop waterproof bb creamFaceshop FaceIt Waterproof BB cream.

Feels like water going on, but smooth. SPF 50 and durable foundation. Sustains the sweatiest of beach and travel days.

manta sleep mask for travel
manta sleep mask

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Manta Sleep Maskir?source=bk&t=grrrltraveler 20&bm id=default&l=ktl&linkId=4b08f734955a1d666005a108dd7580dc& cb=1504243899550

Have difficulty sleeping on planes, trains and hostels? This mask is ah-mazing! It blocks out light and is so snuggle, it gives me the deepest most relaxed sleep!

Electronics

Anker Portable Charger 20000mAh Battery
Anker Portable Charger 20000mAh Battery

Anker 10,000mAh portable charger

One of the worst feelings is when your phone dies on you, but an Anker 10,000mAh portable charger will last you a long-distance flight.

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MyCharge Hub Mini Portable Charger 3000mAh 

This portable charger charges like lightning. Lipstick size, a little bigger than most but the fold out cords, make me love it.

universal travel adapter 4 usb portsUniversal Travel Adapter with 4 USB

This Universal Travel Adapter has four USB adapters spaced apart and a Smart IC device, gauging battery charge so it doesn’t over-charge. The smartest travel adapter!

belkin 6 plug oulet

Belkin 6-Outlet Power Strip Surge e protector

The 6 outlet power strip surge protector is perfect for charging all my devices. These days, finding a power strip with USB hubs is my next target. 6 foot cord is an ideal length.

Travel Footwear for Comfort

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New Balance  515 running sneakers

My New Balance running shoes -574 and 501- have lasted for years. I use them for travel and television crew work. It blends with most styles, casts a sleek, long look and good for my feet (I have high arches).

best shoes for plantar fasciitusir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li2&o=1&a=B00M44R8JQ

Hoka Women’s Arahi 5

Ergonomically supportive and stabilizing for over-pronation. It’s been helpful for my Plantar Fasciitus. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance recognizes products that have been found beneficial to foot health.

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Smartwool Women’s Cable II Socks

70% Merino wool, 29% nylon, 1% elastene. Didn’t want to promote this as it uses animal products, but it’s the best in cold locations & winter climates.

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OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

Podiatrist recommended for my plantar fasciitus, the Oofos sandal footbed cradles and supports arches to reduce energy exertion in the ankles. So walking is easier. Recovery is faster. Many TV crew have also recommended this to me. It takes a bit getting used to but the rubber is soft and flexible.

Travel Clothing for Female Travelers

northface convertible pants, best travel pants, best convertible travel pants, top travel gear, best travel gear for 2015
Best convertible travel pants


ir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li1&o=1&a=B010E5JAWYNorth Face Paramount 2.0 Convertible Pants 

All purpose pants I take on every trip. Converts from long pants, into shorts and cargo pants. Durable and tough but still feels good aganst your skin.

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Columbia Womens Womens Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt

Light-weight, long sleeve fishing shirt features two handy chest pockets, UPF 40 for sun protection. Air vent on the back

havianas slim white

Havianas flip flops 

Havianas is one of my main footwear choices, for hostels, hotels, temple hopping in Asia and just strolling around.  Being from Hawaii, I know flip-flops.  Havianas are top notch.  (Read why I like it )

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Yoga Pants with side pockets

Comfortable and soft yoga pants, which feels like skin. Not see through. Side pockets hold a cellphone and secret waist pocket is enough to hold money and keys

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best beachwear for travel

SOMI wear bikini-workout-underwear

Ecofriendly, sustainable, comfy… the SOMI wear is a bikini-workout-underwear all in one.

ir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li2&o=1&a=B000NTBNVIlightweight breathable windproof waterproof travel jacket

Packable Lightweight Hooded Long Raincoat 

Windproof, Waterproof & Breathable Raincoat with hood, button and zipper front designed can keep you dry and warm in rainy, snowy or windy day, very good water-resistance easy to quick-drying. Quite fashionable and lightweight to pack in a day pack.

pashmina scarf, top travel beauty products

Pashmina Scarf Wrap 70″x27″

My all-time fave multi-purpose fashion accessory and travel must! I got my green pashmina for $5 from a New York street vendor. Pashmina scarves are fairly soft, cozy and long.ir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li2&o=1&a=B01H64EOTU

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best beachwear for travel

SOMI wear bikini-workout-underwear

Ecofriendly, sustainable, comfy… the SOMI wear is a bikini-workout-underwear all in one.

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Lewis N Clark’s Wrinkle Whiz

Spray your wrinkles away- it actually works! Great for business and lazy travelers. I did a hands on video review here.

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unbound merino wool travel dress
unbound merino wool travel dress

Unbound Merino black dress 

Unbound Merino 100% wool travel apparel. Classy, moisture-wicking, suuuuper soft, the apparel does not take on body odor. They are known to take many wears before washing so you can take it on a trip and not worry about having to wash it religiously. The Unbound Merino tshirt and Unbound Merino black dress is my favorite due to the classy and slimming.

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My ballet legwarmers have been with me forever. They’re originally made for ballet warmups; so they’re soft and long. I pack them on every trip. Ideal for planes, trains and air-conditioned buses. They provide that add-on layer of warmth,.

GRRRLTRAVELER Original Flip-Flops Blk
GRRRLTRAVELER Original Flip-Flops Blk

ir?t=grrrltraveler 20&l=li2&o=1&a=B000NTBNVIGRRRLTRAVELER Super Soft Flip Flops

Get my Original GRRRLTRAVELER super soft flip flops. Light-weight and packable for any trip! See my merch shop for more options

grrrltraveler youtube shirt

GRRRRLTRAVELER YouTube Unisex Shirt

May the GRRR be with you.

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Travel Insurance

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Read Reasons you need a VPN.

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Packing Lists

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post which helps support the work I do. The companies listed, I recommend because I think they’re awesome and they’ve helped me a lot in my travels. If you support this site in some way and want to book your trip, these links will help you do that.

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