Chapter 3: What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)
Pack smart for your solo trip with this essential guide. Learn what to bring, what to skip, and how to travel light, safe, and prepared — even if it’s your first time traveling alone.
Packing for a solo trip is a balancing act: you want to be prepared, but you also don’t want to carry too much. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to pack light, smart, and solo-specific — including what to always bring, what to skip, and how to stay organized.
✅ The Solo Travel Packing Philosophy
- Pack for independence. You’ll be the one carrying your bag — up stairs, across cobblestones, or on public transit.
- Pack for flexibility. Solo travel often involves spontaneity, so choose versatile clothing and gear.
- Pack for comfort and safety. The right essentials will help you feel confident and prepared — even when things don’t go as planned.
🧳 Core Packing List for Solo Travelers
| Category | Essentials |
|---|---|
| Clothing | 3–5 tops, 2–3 bottoms, 1 jacket/layer, 1 dressier item, sleepwear |
| Shoes | 1 comfy walking pair, 1 versatile extra (hiking, sandals, etc.) |
| Toiletries | Basics in travel sizes, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene items |
| Documents | Passport, ID, travel insurance, itinerary, copies (physical & digital) |
| Health | Medications, small first-aid kit, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets |
| Tech | Phone, charger, universal adapter, power bank, headphones, eSIM or SIM card |
| Money | Debit/credit card, local currency, emergency cash stash |
| Safety | RFID pouch or money belt, doorstop alarm or portable lock, flashlight |
| Comfort | Quick-dry towel, water bottle, snacks, earplugs, eye mask |
| Backups | Cloud backup of documents, emergency contacts, offline maps |
🎒 Pack in a Carry-On if Possible
Benefits of carry-on travel:
- Less to manage alone
- Fewer baggage fees and lost luggage risk
- Easier on public transit and in small accommodations
- Faster airport exits
Backpacks (35–45L) or small roller bags work great for solo travel.
🧩 Optional But Helpful
- Kindle or e-reader
- Journal or travel planner
- Compact laundry kit (sink stopper, soap, line)
- Reusable shopping bag or tote
- Tiny multitool (non-blade for carry-on)
❌ What to Leave Behind
- Expensive or flashy jewelry
- Full-size toiletries (heavy and spill-prone)
- “Just in case” items you haven’t used in 6 months
- Multiple pairs of shoes
- Hair dryers (check if your accommodation has one)
📦 Packing Tips
- Roll clothes or use packing cubes
- Keep valuables in your personal item (not checked bag)
- Wear bulkier items on the plane
- Bring a lightweight foldable daypack or crossbody for daily use
- Keep a digital AND physical copy of your passport and travel insurance
Summary
Packing solo means packing smart. Bring what empowers your independence, keeps you safe, and makes your experience easier — and leave behind the extra weight (physically and mentally).