Miss Simplitty
Pack Light, Travel Smart
Every person who wants to travel has the same dilemma. How to pack for a trip? How to pack wise? Nobody wants to carry things that are not necessary. We should always take things that we will really need during our adventure. Do you agree? I’m here to help you. Following my advice, you will learn how to pack wisely. First of all, you should learn how to pack light. There is nothing worse than big, heavy luggage. Trust me! I tested this on myself.
Meet Miss Simplitty: Your Solo Travel Guru
If you read my other posts, you already know I worked in tourism for a few years. For those who are new to my blog, let me introduce myself. I’m Miss Simplitty, your travel guru and solo travel expert. I have a background in tourism. I’m proud to hold a bachelor’s degree in International Tourism and a master’s degree in Management in Tourism. My knowledge has a stable foundation.
During my studies, I went to Turkey to work as a rep, tour leader, and guide. It was a time when my love for discovering the world began. Like everyone, I had to learn how to pack my luggage for a few months. Beginnings were not easy. I still remember two suitcases and a big bag. I felt so tired carrying them with me. A real nightmare. After time and many experiments, I learned to travel with a small carry-on. Now it’s time for you to learn how to pack light.
Why Solo Female Travel is Amazing (and Totally Doable!)
Being a solo traveler is a growing trend worldwide. Do you know why? It fosters independence. While you travel alone, you build your confidence. It’s amazing how it allows you to discover yourself in ways you never imagined. You can learn to enjoy your own company and to do what you want and when you want. I personally love this amazing feeling of freedom.
Dear Ladies, traveling alone as a woman is safe in most countries. You just need to follow some simple safety rules, like you probably already do in your country. Traveling alone is really not dangerous. And it’s affordable. I tried to travel on my own, and everything was fine. I believe every solo trip can be safe and amazing.
“A 2019 non-gender specific study found that 76% of travelers had gone on a solo trip or were considering going. Among women, the interest is is growing exponentially.”
Solo Female Travelers
The Importance of a Well-Packed Bag
Now, onto the nitty-gritty: packing! It’s very important to have a well-organized bag. It’s a key to a smooth and stress-free solo adventure. It doesn’t matter if it’s a trip that lasts a few days or if you plan a longer stay. A well-packed bag or suitcase is a must. Nobody wants to end up with a big heavy luggage full of things that won’t ever be used. Ensure you don’t take things “just in case”. You won’t use them, so why do you take them? I’ll teach you how to pack only things that you will need and nothing more. Time for travel essentials.
“When traveling solo, it’s important to pack light and only bring the essentials. This makes it easier to get around and reduces the risk of losing or having items stolen.”
The Travel Mexico Solo blog
Essentials for Every Female Solo Traveler
Let’s start our packing list with the essential things you can’t travel without. I divided them into 4 categories. Remember to always have them in your backpack.
1. Travel Documents
Passport and Visa
If you are the lucky one as I am and you have a passport from European Union, than you don’t need passport and visa while travelling in Schengen Area. For others, both documanet are mandatory. Of course there are countries you can enter with passport only an you won’t need to have visa. Before every trip you must check what the requirements. You should do it well in advance as process to get visa may take weeks or even 3 months.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is another must-have. You never know what may happen during your trip. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. You can buy insurance from a local company in your country. You can also try the insurance that many digital nomads use:
- SafetyWing
- World Nomads
- IMG Global
- Insured Nomads
- Atlas Travel Insurance
Itinerary and Emergency Contacts
Always keep a printout of your flight info, accommodation bookings, and a list of emergency contact numbers (local embassy, your back-home contacts) handy. You can also store this info digitally on your phone, but having a hard copy is a lifesaver if your phone dies.
2. Money and Banking
Next up: money matters! Traveling solo means being smart about your finances. Here’s how to stay on top of things:
Cash and Cards
- Cash: Always carry some local currency for emergencies, small purchases, or places that don’t accept cards. ATMs are widely available, but research withdrawal fees beforehand.
- Cards: Pack at least two debit or credit cards in case one gets lost or stolen. Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees. Revolut and Wise are popular options for travelers because of their competitive exchange rates and low fees.
Currency Conversion Tools
Knowing how much you’re spending in your home currency is key. There are handy currency converter apps you can download, or you can use online tools to stay on top of exchange rates. This will help you avoid getting ripped off when making purchases.
3. Safety Measures
Safety is our top priority, especially when adventuring solo. Here’s how to pack some peace of mind:
Personal Safety Devices
These little gadgets can be a big help in an emergency:
- Personal Alarm: A small keychain alarm with a loud ear-piercing sound can deter attackers and draw attention.
- Door Wedge: This little tool helps keep your hotel room door securely shut from the inside, giving you extra security at night.
- Travel Whistle: A loud whistle can be a great way to attract attention if you feel unsafe.
Self-Defense Tools
While we hope you never need them, here are some optional self-defense options to consider:
- Pepper Spray: Check local laws and airline regulations before packing pepper spray, as it’s not allowed everywhere.
- Self-Defense Class: Consider taking a short self-defense class before your trip. It’s good to learn some basic techniques to stay safe.
Remember: The most important self-defense tool is your awareness. Trust your gut instincts and avoid isolated areas. Try to stay at the hotel or hostel at night.
4. Health and Wellness
Being healthy and feeling your best is essential for enjoying your solo trip. Here’s what to pack to keep your body happy:
First Aid Kit
A compact first-aid kit is a lifesaver for minor cuts, scrapes, or bug bites. I always pack essentials like bandaids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any allergy medication I need. As I said before, it’s better to be safe than sorry and in pain.
Medications
Pack enough of any prescription medications you take regularly, along with a doctor’s note in case you need refills. Consider bringing copies of your prescriptions as well.
Sun Protection
Sunshine is great, but sunburn is not! Pack a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) for both your skin and lips, as well as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Remember to reapply sunscreen often, especially after swimming or sweating. Unfortunately, sun is not our best friend. It not only can burn our skin, but also I speeds up aging processes in our skin and body. SPF sunscreen should always be in your hand luggage or hand bag. The whole year.
“Treat the problems like potholes, not canyons. Step back, take a deep breath, try to see the humor in the situation, then carry on.”
Fitzhugh Mullan
Clothing and Accessories
Now, let’s talk about what to wear! On a solo trip, you want clothes that are both stylish and practical. I think it’s especially important for female travelers. Am I right? Here’s how to pack light and look fantastic:
1. Versatile Clothing Pieces
Packing light is key, so choose clothes you can mix and match easily. Here are some winning picks:
Multipurpose Dresses
Dresses are lifesavers for all women. Must-have on every checklist. They’re comfy, easy to throw on, and can be dressed up or down. Look for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that pack easily.
Mix-and-Match Separates
Pack neutral-colored tops and bottoms that you can mix and match to create multiple outfits. This way, you can pack less but have more outfit options. Think comfy t-shirts, breezy tanks, and versatile pants or skirts.
Pro-Tip: Consider laundry facilities at your accommodation and pack clothes that dry quickly.
2. Footwear Essentials
The right shoes can make or break your trip. Here are your footwear must-haves:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable shoes are key for exploring new places. Choose a well-worn pair of sneakers that offer good support. A sturdy pair of trekking shoes is a must. Opt for shoes with good arch support and traction, especially when you plan an offroad trip through the mountains.
Sandals for Warm Climates
Pack a pair of comfy sandals for hot weather or beach days. Opt for styles with good arch support to avoid tired feet.
3. Accessories for Function and Style
The right accessories can elevate your look and be surprisingly practical:
Scarves and Shawls
These versatile pieces are a must-have! They can be used as a scarf, a light blanket on chilly evenings, or even a beach cover-up. On the beach, you may also need to wear a sarong in addition to your bikini or swimsuit. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Jewelry for Versatility
Pack a few simple pieces of jewelry that can be easily mixed and matched to complement your outfits. Opt for lightweight, travel-friendly materials to avoid weighing down your bag. Choose items that won’t attract unwanted attention. You don’t want them to be stolen.
“Solo female travelers should pack light and only bring essentials. Avoid bringing valuables that could get lost or stolen.”
Bankrate
Technology and Gadgets
I can’t travel without tech pieces. They let me work and connect with the world and family. We should travel light and can do it even if we need to pack our tech gear.
1. Communication Devices
Staying connected and navigating your way around are key parts of a smooth solo trip. Here’s how to pack the tech essentials:
Smartphone and Charger
This is your lifeline! Make sure your phone plan covers international roaming if needed, or consider purchasing a local SIM card at your destination. Don’t forget a portable charger to keep your phone juiced up throughout the day.
Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot (Optional)
For extra peace of mind, consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. This allows you to connect your devices to the internet almost anywhere, but be sure to check data usage costs beforehand.
2. Navigation Tools
Never get lost! Here are your navigation must-haves:
Maps and GPS Apps
Download offline maps of your destination for areas without internet access. Many great GPS apps can also help you get around, even without data.
Travel-friendly laptop or Tablet (Optional)
If you need to work remotely or enjoy watching movies on long journeys, a lightweight laptop or tablet can be a great addition to your bag.
Remember: Be mindful of data usage and roaming charges when using your phone or devices abroad. Consider downloading content like movies or ebooks before your trip to avoid data overload.
“The vast majority of independent travelers spend between $2 and $3K weekly on average, excluding airfares.”
Passport-Photo.Online blog
Packing Strategies for Efficiency
Conquering your suitcase is a key part of a stress-free solo adventure. Here are some clever packing hacks to maximize space and keep your belongings neatly organized:
1. Organizational Tools
Ditch the suitcase chaos! These handy tools can be your packing BFFs:
Packing Cubes
These lightweight cubes help you compartmentalize your belongings. They make it easy to find what you need and keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
Compression Bags
For bulky items like sweaters or down jackets, compression bags are lifesavers. They use air-removal valves to squeeze out air, shrinking the size of your clothes and freeing up precious space in your suitcase.
Pro-Tip: Use the KonMari folding method to fold your clothes into space-saving rectangles. This method involves folding clothes in specific ways. You should create neat little packages that stand upright in your suitcase. This method maximizes space and minimizes wrinkles.
This is one of the best packing tips. I’m using the KonMari method in my everyday life. It helped me to save space. Now, I have better, easier access to my clothes. You should try it too.
2. Maximizing Space
Every inch counts! Here are some space-saving techniques:
Rolling vs. Folding Clothes
Rolling clothes, especially t-shirts, and tanks, can help save space and prevent wrinkles. For dressier items that need to be folded, consider the KonMari method mentioned earlier.
Utilizing Empty Spaces
Be a space ninja and fill every nook and cranny:
- Shoes: Stuff socks or rolled-up underwear inside your shoes to utilize that empty space.
- Fragile Items: Pack delicate items like jewelry or toiletries inside your shoes for extra padding.
- Gaps and Corners: Fill in any leftover gaps in your suitcase with rolled-up scarves or small clothes items.
All the above packing strategies can help you to fit everything you need for your solo adventure. No feeling like your suitcase is about to burst!
Cultural and Destination-Specific Items
Every adventure is unique. Sometimes, you’ll need to pack based on the local culture and climate. Here’s how to ensure you’re prepared:
1. Language and Communication Aids
Learning a few key phrases in the local language goes a long way! I always like to learn a few of the most important words and sentences to use in everyday life during my trips. It helped me a lot many times. When I worked in Turkey, I learned Turkish, which made my work and life much easier. Suddenly, I wasn’t a foreigner anymore. I was one of them. Here are some helpful tools for you:
Phrasebook or Language App
A handy phrasebook or a downloaded language-learning app can be a lifesaver when trying to communicate with locals. Focus on basic greetings, essential questions, and numbers.
Translation Devices (Optional)
Consider a portable translation device for more complex conversations. These can be especially helpful in countries with languages very different from your own.
Remember: A smile and a friendly attitude can go a long way, even if you don’t speak the language fluently.
2. Destination-Specific Attire
Packing clothes that fit the local culture and climate shows respect. Additionally, you’ll be comfortable throughout your trip:
Modesty Requirements
Some cultures might have dress codes for religious sites or certain areas. Research modesty expectations beforehand. If necessary, pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics that respect the local customs.
Climate-Appropriate Clothing
Be sure to pack clothes that are suitable for the weather at your destination. Check weather forecasts and pack layers for changeable climates. Don’t forget essentials like rain gear for rainy seasons or a swimsuit and cover-up for beach destinations.
Entertainment and Recreation
Even the most adventurous explorers need some downtime to relax and recharge. Here’s how to pack some entertainment to keep you company during those chill moments on your solo adventure:
1. Reading Materials
Get lost in a good book, or document your journey! Here are some ideas to keep your mind occupied:
Books or E-Readers
Pack your favorite book or invest in a lightweight e-reader to bring a whole library with you. Choose books that inspire you. Read something that sparks your curiosity about different cultures or simply helps you unwind.
Travel Journals
Capture your experiences and memories in a travel journal. Jot down your thoughts, feelings, and funny anecdotes to create a cherished keepsake of your solo adventure.
Pro-Tip: Download ebooks or audiobooks to your phone or tablet before your trip. I always do it. This way, I save on space and avoid data roaming charges.
2. Portable Entertainment
Keep boredom at bay with some fun digital entertainment:
Music Players or Apps
Load up your favorite playlists or download a music app. It will keep you company during long journeys or downtime. Music can be a great mood booster and a fun way to explore new sounds.
Games and Puzzles
Download some brain-teasing games or puzzles on your phone or tablet. These are a great way to pass the time while waiting for transportation or relaxing in the evenings.
Remember: Take breaks from screens and enjoy the moment! Solo travel is a chance to disconnect from the every day and connect with yourself and your surroundings.
Beauty and Personal Care
Looking and feeling your best can boost your confidence. It can even make your solo adventure more enjoyable. Here’s how to pack light and keep your beauty routine simple:
1. Travel-Sized Toiletries
Skip the bulky bottles – travel-sized toiletries are your friends! Here are the must-haves:
Shampoo and Conditioner
Pack TSA-approved travel sizes of your favorite shampoo and conditioner. To save even more space, opt for a combined 2-in-1 formula. Check airport requirements related to liquids in advance to avoid bad surprises.
Skincare Essentials
Don’t forget the basics! Pack travel-sized cleansers, moisturizers, and any other