Solo travel is known to offer unparalleled freedom and adventure, a way to explore the world on your own terms, independently and confidently. However, like we have mentioned above proper packing is key to a smooth enjoyable journey, and you want to make certain you have all the essentials you need too.
Here’s a concise, detailed guide to ensure you’re properly prepared for your next solo adventure:
(*Tip write down a detailed list of what you are taking along, before you start packing!)
The Essential Packing Tips:
1. Create a Detailed Checklist:
Prioritize the must-have items like chronic and OTC medications, travel documents like your passport, and must–have electronics.
Group your items by category (IE: Your clothing, toiletries, documents) for efficient packing. Review your packing list before and after packing to ensure nothing is missed, or to get rid of non-essential items you can really do without.
2. Organize Your Documents:
Scan important travel documents and store them digitally, and make 2 hard copies as well, to leave one with someone you trust and take along the other one with you.
Keep these original documents in a secure, easily accessible water proof pouch. Include a mini notebook with emergency contact information in a separate, easily visible location, and add these numbers in your smart phone in a separate easy accessible folder on the desktop.
3. Pack Light and Smart:
Choose versatile mix and matching, sensible clothing, that is durable, easily washable, and suited to destination weather conditions.
Pack in by types. IE Besides clothing suited to destination, take along alternative clothing in case the weather changes. Roll up your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles. Check out some clothing folding techniques on YouTube showing how to make items compact.
4. Maximize Your Carry-On Space:
Pack essential items like medications, electronics, and important documents in your carry-on which should be a durable bag with multiple compartments.
Consider packing in a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-cancelling headphones for long haul flights. Invest in a lightweight, durable carry-on bag made of tough nylon, leather, or canvas materials.
5. Toiletries and Essentials:
Use mini travel-sized toiletries to save space and think about what you can purchase at the destination depending on where you are travelling to.
Consider taking along solid shampoo, conditioner, and soap bars to avoid airline liquid restrictions. Pack in a compact basic first-aid kit with essential medications which you can buy at your local pharmacy.
6. Staying Connected:
You need to keep your devices charged with a portable charger, so investigate which ones are necessary and pack them in.
If traveling internationally, pack a universal adapter. Consider purchasing a local SIM card when you arrive at your destination or connect to local Wi-Fi for WhatsApp and for affordable data and calls.
7. Your Security Considerations:
Use tough durable locks to deter theft for use on your hostel lockers.
Keep all your valuable items with you or in a secure hotel safe, and consider using a money belt for your money safety. Stay alert while travelling at all times and trust your instincts to avoid any unsavoury situations and possible dangers.
Solo travellers should follow these tips, and you can pack efficiently, travel stress-free, and make the most of your solo adventure. Remember, the key to successful solo travel is preparation, proper planning from step one, and a positive mind-set.