Let me to
ride you back to Bali, where I went on my very first solo female trip.
I was
sweating and carrying an overflowing luggage behind me at Denpasar Airport,
hoping I could throw half of it into the water, even though I had watched every
packing video and read every vlog checklist.
I learned one
of the most important things about traveling alone from that trip
- packing light is a survival skill, not just a suggestion.
I've made this honest list of the 7 things I really regret bringing after going on multiple solo trips, from Portugal to Japan. I promise you that most other female solo travelers share these feelings.
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| What NOT to Pack - 7 Items Solo Female Travelers |
1. Too Many Outfits "Just in Case"
I once packed five gowns "for dinners," but I ended up wearing two of them.
Decision fatigue or a suitcase that blows up every time you unzip it are the
last things you need while you're taking busses to hostels.
Be adaptable.
Flowy
top and black leggings look fantastic together.
Lesson learned: It doesn't matter if you wear the same thing twice or three times. Comfort and flexibility will be more important to you.
2. Full-Size Toiletries
I understand that the scent of your favorite shampoo is amazing. But carrying bulky bottles? It's not worth it.
During one trip, my journal and my clothes were destroyed
when a face wash exploded inside my luggage. Sad.
What I do now: Refillable travel-size containers + local products = life saver.
Bonus: Try local brands is kind of fun.
3. Expensive Jewelry
My grandma gave me a necklace, which I packed and worried about losing the entire time.
You're already on alert when you travel alone. Why put yourself through the
trouble of protecting small, shiny objects?
Pro tip: Keep costly valuables and heirlooms at home. Simple fashion pieces like studs work perfectly.
4. High Heels
It was my sincere hope that I would attend elegant rooftop bars and spin around in my high heels.
As an alternative? Walking on cobblestones in Rome caused me to
twist my ankle, and I never wore them again.
Reality check: A sad reminder that the real MVPs are foldable flats or stylish sneakers. Protect your sense of balance and your feet.
5. Books (Multiple)
Because I love to read, I brought three paperbacks with me to Chiang Mai.
They were so
heavy by the time I reached the second hostel that I exchanged them for books.
Now I bring: A Kindle. Better still, I download a couple audiobooks to listen to on the way.
6. That "Travel-Only" Gadget You Never Use
I once thought it would be useful to have a neck fan in Southeast Asia, and I did bring one. I made use of it once. It passed away.
After carrying it about for
three weeks, I eventually gave it to a hostel.
The truth: You won't be using it amazingly abroad if you don't use it at home.
7. Multiple "Emergency" Kits
20 tampons, a sewing kit, stain remover pens, and a small first aid kit The "what if" spiral is simple to get caught in.
However, most locations include
shops, including pharmacies, unless you're traveling off the grid.
Now I pack: I buy the rest if (and when) I truly need it, but I just have one small pouch containing necessities.
Final Thoughts
Traveling solo
as a woman is encouraging, but it also teaches you to be independent and carry
everything on your own two hands. Your soul feels lighter when your purse is
lighter.
I've learned
the hard way, so if you're looking around your bag and thinking if you should
bring your curling iron or your fifth pair of sandals, don't.
Your independence, mental health, and your back will all appreciate it.
Have you ever had second thoughts about bringing something on a trip? Please share your hilarious (or annoying) memories in the comments section.
Read: Why
I Ditched Group Tours for Solo Adventures
