Essential Travel Gear for Solo Female Travellers
4/28/20254 min read
Essential Travel Gear for Solo Female Travellers
I am also guilty of packing way too much!
So, you’ve booked the trip, bought the plane ticket, and told your mum and dad three times that yes, you’ll text them when you land. Now it’s time for the fun part: PACKING. (Okay, semi-fun. Let's not lie to ourselves.)
As a seasoned solo female traveller who has lived on 5 continents in the world and travelled vastly since I was 5 years old. I know a thing or two or three about some essentials you will need on a trip.
If you're ready to pack like a pro, here’s my ultimate guide to essential travel gear for solo female travellers - with a few laughs and real-life recommendations along the way.
The Basics You’ll Wonder How You Lived Without
These magical little zipper pouches will change your life. No more sitting on your suitcase to get it to close. No more digging around for that one sock. They keep you organised, save space, and make unpacking a breeze. I swear by the compression ones—you can fit a week’s worth of outfits in your carry-on and still have room for snacks. These come in many different colours to choose from.
Forget those sad airport neck pillows filled with mystery fluff. Get yourself a memory foam or inflatable travel pillow with real support. I personally have the memory foam neck pillow after years of travelling with an inflatable pillow.
They pack small, dry fast, and double as a picnic blanket, sarong, or emergency blanket when that hostel AC is trying to freeze you out.
Okay, it’s not the sexiest accessory, but loosing your passport definitely isn’t hot. A money belt or RFID-blocking wallet keeps your cash and ID close and secure. They come in many colours, but I use a neutral skin coloured money belt which hides easily underneath your t-shirt.
Clean & Fresh on the Go (Even When You’re Not)
Plant-Based Flushable Wipes or Body Wipes
Because sometimes showers are a luxury and squat toilets are a reality. These keep you feeling fresh when facilities are... let’s just say rustic.
Blisters, bug bites, mystery bruises—you’ll want this. I keep one that’s barely the size of my phone in my daypack at all times. Ladies, also travel with a few supplies for that monthly friends!
Your immune system will thank you. Especially after holding on to those subway poles or using public restrooms with no soap in sight. I personally love using natural products (especially when you are frequently spraying into your hands) and have found a wonderful vegan hand sanitizer spray, which comes in several delicious scents.
Keep Cool, Keep Covered
A wide-brim hat that folds into your bag and pops back into shape (chef’s kiss). Great for sun protection, hiding dirty hair, and feeling like you’re in a travel magazine photoshoot. I found that I think actually looks cute and comes in various colours.
Protect your eyes and your style. Goodr sunglasses are my personal favourite. They come in so many different FUN colours, light weight, polarized, with a UV400 protection that blocks 100% of the harmful rays. Doesn't hurt to travel with a few pairs. You'll need these for those sunny destinations.
Stay Charged, Stay Sane
There’s nothing more tragic than your phone dying just when Google Maps is your only friend. Get one with multiple charges and a slim profile.
One plug to rule them all. Whether you're in Italy, India, or New Zealand, this baby will keep your electronics alive.
Just a Few More Must-Haves
Hydration is key, but so is saving space. These fold up when empty and refill anywhere. Great for hiking or airport layovers where bottled water costs $8.
A sink stopper, some detergent sheets, and a travel clothesline = clean clothes without hunting for a laundromat.
Mini Travel Steamer or Wrinkle Spray
Because wrinkled clothes are not a vibe, even if you're on a jungle trek. I know this may sound like a bit of a luxury, but if space permits, a travel-sized steamer or a wrinkle-release spray makes you look put together with almost zero effort.
Sleep Mask and Ear Pugs
An absolute must for me! Hostel roommates, chatty seatmates, and 3 a.m. city noise don’t stand a chance.
Bonus: My “Why Didn’t I Pack This Sooner?” Items
Mini flashlight- for late-night walks, power outages, or reading without disturbing hostel bunkmates. This flashlight is smaller than our phone.
Small lock - because not every hostel locker has one. Better safe than sorry.
She's Birdie Safety alarm and light - especially important when travelling as a solo female. Checkout my blog on safety tips for solo female travellers.
Foldable tote bag – For shopping, beach trips, or overflow from your overstuffed day bag.
Travelling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering things you can do. With the right gear, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready for anything. Whether it’s climbing to see the monastery in Petra, Jordan or navigating the New York city subway with two large suitcases.
So, pack smart, pack light(ish), and don’t forget to leave a little room in your bag for memories, souvenirs, and probably at least one local snack you swore you’d never try.
Bon voyage, you globe-trotting goddess.
(That You’ll Actually Use)
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