If there’s one thing that can make even the most seasoned traveller break into a cold sweat, it’s packing. The panic of “have I forgotten something?” mixed with the dread of overpacking, we’ve all been there.
Whether you’re heading off on your first solo adventure or your tenth, this packing list for solo female travellers is here to help you pack smart, travel light, and look effortlessly chic while doing it. Minimalist doesn’t mean plain; it means thoughtful, confident, and prepared. To make things even easier, you can download our free printable packing checklist and take the stress out of planning your next trip.
Before we get into clothes and gadgets, let’s talk about the small but mighty items that make every trip smoother:
- Passport + Travel Documents (plus photocopies and digital copies saved in your email)
- Money pouch or Fanny Pack: Keeps your passport, cash, and cards safe, especially in crowded areas or airports.
- Packing cubes: Total game changer. They keep your suitcase organised and make unpacking a breeze; you’ll see everything at a glance instead of digging for one item.
- Eye mask & earplugs: Your best friends on long flights or noisy hostels. A little comfort goes a long way.
- Packet of gum or mints: For pressure changes during takeoff and landing, and for feeling fresh after long travel days.
- Notebook & pen: For journaling, jotting down ideas, or writing emergency details.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while saving money (and plastic).
- Travel pillow: Because you deserve to arrive looking rested, not broken.
- Torch or mini flashlight – for power cuts, night trains, or late-night walks
- Rain jacket or foldable poncho – lightweight, practical, and surprisingly stylish
- Carabiner clips – perfect for keeping things attached to your bag, e.g dirty shoes or clothes
Travelling solo means being smart, not scared. These essentials help you stay confident and safe wherever you go.
- Airtags: Slip one in your luggage, one in your handbag, and maybe one in your toiletry kit. Instant peace of mind.
- Door alarm & door jam: Perfect for solo stays in hotels, hostels, or Airbnbs. They’ll make you feel secure and in control.
- Power bank (USB-C & USB-B ports): You cannot risk a dead phone when you need maps or translation apps.
- Universal adapter: For all your devices, and yes, pack a spare cable or two.
- Bag or suitcase lock: Paranoia? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.
- Portable luggage scale: Weigh your bags before you head to the airport and avoid the dreaded repacking at the counter.
When you’re alone, being prepared is the best self-care there is.
- First aid kit: Include painkillers, antihistamines, antacids, anti-diarrhoea tablets, rehydration salts, plasters, and antiseptic wipes.
- Prescription medication: Always carry a few extra days’ worth (plus a copy of your prescription).
- Sunscreen: The non-negotiable.
- Bug spray: For tropical or beach destinations.
- Electrolyte packets (Liquid IV): For hot days, long hikes, or mild food poisoning (it happens).
- Hand sanitiser & wipes: Because airports and public toilets are what they are.
- Travel insurance – not glamorous, but non-negotiable
Here’s the universal formula for minimalist yet stylish packing. It works beautifully for about a week of travel, and with a few tweaks, it scales for longer trips.
The Formula (Baseline for 5–7 Days):
5 Tops: 3 casual (cotton, linen, or silk), 1 dressy, 1 neutral layering piece
4 Bottoms: 2 trousers/jeans, 1 skirt or shorts, 1 comfy travel pants
3 Dresses (or extras): One for day, one for night, one flexible
2 Pairs of Shoes: 1 comfy walking pair (trainers or sandals), 1 slightly dressier pair
1 Jacket or Coat: Neutral and weather-appropriate
Add a swimsuit, scarf, and pyjamas, and you’re sorted.
How Long Does This Serve?
This setup easily covers one week of daily outfits if you mix and match. Quick-dry, wrinkle-resistant fabrics make laundry easy, so you can reuse and refresh items. Accessories and scarves add variety without taking up much space.
Travelling for a Month? No Problem.
Add 2–3 extra tops and 1–2 bottoms for every additional week.
Add a pair of comfy walking shoes.
Dresses can double for day-to-night wear.
Keep your jacket and shoes versatile; the same pair of shoes and jacket can serve the full month.
Consider doing laundry once or twice during the trip, lightweight items dry fast, and keep your suitcase light.
Stick to a colour palette so everything mixes and matches; a handful of extras will feel like a completely new wardrobe.
Pro Tips:
- Pack layer-friendly pieces (tank tops, cardigans, light jackets) so you can adjust to the weather and style without overpacking. Even on a month-long adventure, you’ll have all your bases covered without lugging around a giant suitcase.
- Stick to a cohesive colour palette, neutrals plus two accent colours. Everything mixes and matches easily, and you’ll look polished with minimal effort.
Packing can feel overwhelming; even anxiety-inducing, if you’re not organised. That’s exactly why packing smart is a game-changer. Instead of cramming everything into your suitcase and panicking over what fits, you can pack in an organised way, save space, and actually see everything at a glance. Here’s how I do it:
Packing Cubes: Organise Like a Pro
Think of packing cubes as your little suitcase, but inside your suitcase.
- Use different cubes for tops, bottoms, underwear, or accessories.
- They keep everything neat, so you can pull out a cube without rummaging through your entire bag.
- Shallow cubes are amazing; you open your suitcase and boom, everything is visible at a glance.
Vacuum or Compression Bags: Save Serious Space
These are lifesavers for bulky items like jackets, sweaters, or scarves.
- Simply roll or fold your item, slide it into the bag, and remove the air.
- The bag shrinks, giving you extra room for more essentials or a cheeky market find.
- Pro tip: Combine with packing cubes to have an organised and compact travelling bag.
Rolling Clothes: Space & Wrinkle Friendly
Not all items need a vacuum bag. Thin fabrics like t-shirts, leggings, or dresses do beautifully rolled:
- Roll each piece tightly, then slot them into cubes or straight into your suitcase.
- Rolling keeps clothes smooth, saves space, and makes it easy to spot what you need.
For a perfectly organised suitcase:
- Roll your clothes to save space.
- Use packing cubes to keep items grouped and visible.
- Compress bulky items with vacuum or compression bags.
When you open your suitcase, you should see everything at a glance, no frantic digging, no lost socks, no panic. Just chic, calm, and ready for adventure.
Pack by layer:
- Bottom layer: shoes (in bags) and heavy items.
- Middle: packing cubes (clothes).
- Top: toiletries, chargers, quick-access items.
- Stuff socks or underwear inside shoes. Every inch counts.
- Keep one small laundry bag. Dirty clothes go straight in, no mess.
- Pack vertically (like files). When you open your suitcase, you’ll see everything at a glance.
Choosing the Right Travel Bags
Hard-shell suitcase (Check-in or Carry-on):
Durable, sleek, and structured. Choose one with 360° spinner wheels and an integrated lock.
- Carry-on: 20–22 inches - perfect for short trips.
- Check-in: 24–28 inches - ideal for longer stays.
Travel backpack (personal item):
Pick one with multiple compartments, a laptop sleeve, and a trolley strap to slide over your suitcase handle.
Crossbody bag or fanny pack:
Perfect for exploring; keeps your hands free and your valuables close.
Navigating airport luggage rules can feel confusing, but once you understand the basics, it’s smooth sailing. Here’s a clear breakdown for solo travellers:
Carry-On (Cabin Luggage)
This is your main in-flight bag, the one that goes in the overhead bin. It needs to fit within the airline’s overhead compartment so it slides easily without hassle.
Weight: Usually 7–10kg, depending on your airline
Size: Roughly 55cm x 35cm x 22cm
Liquids: Each container max 100ml, all fitting into one 1-litre clear bag
What to keep in your carry-on:
- Passport, wallet, phone, charger
- A change of clothes (in case your checked luggage is delayed)
- Mini toiletries
- Medications
- Valuables like your camera, laptop, or jewellery
Think of it as your lifesaver bag, everything you’d need if your checked luggage goes on a holiday of its own.
Personal Item (Handbag or Small Backpack)
This sits under the seat in front of you and is for all the in-flight essentials.
- Size: Around 40cm x 30cm x 15cm
What to pack:
- Headphones and entertainment (book, Kindle)
- Snacks and an empty water bottle (fill after security)
- Lip balm, moisturiser, hand sanitiser
- Travel documents (boarding pass, itinerary)
Think of it as your pocket of sanity, everything you want within arm’s reach while flying.
Check-In Bag
This is for everything else that doesn’t fit in your carry-on, clothes, extra shoes, and souvenirs.
- Weight: Usually 20–23kg (varies by airline)
- Tip: Always tag it with your name and contact info
- Extra security: Use Airtags or luggage trackers for peace of mind
Your check-in bag is your “home away from home” in luggage form, just make sure it’s locked, secure, and labelled.
Females Flying Solo Pro Tip: Weigh your bags before leaving home to avoid those last-minute airport dramas. A small portable luggage scale is a solo traveller’s best friend.
Packing isn’t about bringing everything; it’s about bringing what makes you feel confident, safe, and free.
You don’t need a new outfit for every day; you need pieces that make you feel like you, wherever you are in the world.
So pack light, travel smart, stay safe, and leave a little extra room in your suitcase for new memories (and maybe one irresistible market find).
📋 Bonus: Download Your Free Printable “Packing Checklist for Solo Female Travellers”
Make your next trip completely stress-free. Print it, tick it off, and you’ll never forget an essential again.
👉 Download the Checklist (PDF)
Packing Checklist for Solo Female Travellers
About the Author
Gabi is a passionate solo female traveller in her 20s with over 3 years of experience exploring the world independently. She has organised and led multiple group trips for solo female travellers, helping women feel confident, safe, and empowered on their journeys. Through her community, Females Flying Solo, Gabi connects like-minded women and shares expert tips on destinations, safety, and meaningful travel experiences.
You can follow her adventures and get travel insights on Instagram, TikTok or join the Females Flying Solo community.
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